The Magic of Breaking Free and Unlearning Life's 'Programming'

From the moment we're born, we're subjected to a barrage of programming. Our parents, caregivers, teachers, and society at large imprint upon us a set of beliefs, values, and expectations that shape our understanding of the world and our place in it.

While much of this programming is necessary for our survival and integration into society, it can also limit our potential and prevent us from living our most authentic and fulfilling lives.

The concept of "unlearning" has gained more awareness and acceptance, particularly in the realm of personal development and self-actualization. But what does it mean to unlearn, and why is it so crucial in order to live a life true to ourselves?

The Early Years: Our Formative Programming

The first seven years of our lives are particularly crucial in shaping our worldview. During this time, our brains are like sponges, absorbing information and forming neural pathways that will influence our thoughts, behaviors, and decisions for years to come.

We internalize messages about our worth, our capabilities, and our role in the world.

These early lessons can be both empowering and limiting. While we may learn valuable skills and social norms, we often adopt beliefs that don't serve us in the long run. For example, a child raised in a household that prioritizes financial stability above all else might grow up believing that pursuing a creative passion is irresponsible or selfish.

If you're raised with talk that 'money is the root of all evil,' or 'people who have lots of money are greedy,' -- you'll be set up internally to limit the amount of money you allow into your life to avoid these characteristics. This happens on a subconscious level, but can be rewired with effort.

The "Shoulds" That Hold Us Back

As we grow older, the programming continues. Society, culture, and our immediate environment bombard us with messages about what we "should" do with our lives. We should get good grades, go to college, find a stable job, get married, buy a house, have children – the list goes on.

While these milestones can be fulfilling for some, blindly following this prescribed path without questioning whether it aligns with our true personal desires can eventually lead to a deep sense of dissatisfaction and emptiness.

The pressure to conform to these expectations can be overwhelming. Many of us find ourselves pursuing careers or lifestyles that don't bring us joy simply because we believe it's what we're supposed to do.

We silence our inner voice, the one that whispers our true passions and purpose, in favor of meeting external expectations.

The Courage to Question

Unlearning requires courage.

It demands that we examine our beliefs, question their origins, and consider whether they truly align with our values and aspirations. This process can be uncomfortable and unsettling, because it often means challenging the very foundations upon which we've built our lives.

However, the rewards of this introspection are immeasurable. By questioning our programming, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and ways of being. We give ourselves permission to explore paths that may have seemed closed off or forbidden.

This became true for me mid-way in my career once I'd achieved some of the milestones that I 'thought' were going to make me happy. Once I became aware the beliefs I'd held were an illusion or no longer true for me - I committed to myself to take the steps to move in the direction of alignment with my heart and soul.

Embracing Your Authentic Self

The ultimate goal of unlearning is to discover and embrace our authentic selves.

This doesn't mean rejecting everything we've been taught or abandoning all societal norms. Instead, it's about consciously choosing which beliefs and values to keep and which to discard or modify.

When we live in alignment with our true selves, we tap into a wellspring of energy, creativity, and purpose. We're more likely to pursue work and a way of living that feels meaningful and fulfilling, rather than simply chasing a paycheck.

We form deeper, more genuine connections with others because we're no longer hiding behind a facade of who we think we should be - or how we think others 'want' us to be.

Contributing to the World in Your Unique Way

One of the most beautiful aspects of unlearning and living authentically is the positive impact it can have on the world around us.

When we're true to ourselves, we naturally gravitate towards ways of contributing in the world, that align with our passions and strengths. This not only leads to greater personal satisfaction but often results in more innovative and impactful contributions to society.

Think about the visionaries and change-makers throughout history who dared to challenge the status quo and pursue their unique visions. From authors who shared new ways of looking at the world through their writing, to entrepreneurs who revolutionized industries, these individuals often had to unlearn and reject 'group think' to bring their ideas to life.

The Ongoing Journey of Unlearning

Unlearning is not a one-time event but a lifelong process.

As we grow and evolve, we'll continually encounter new insights, beliefs, and thought patterns that require examination. The key is to cultivate a mindset of curiosity and openness, staying open to question our assumptions and explore new perspectives.

By embracing the potential that comes with unlearning, we free ourselves from the limitations of our past programming. We open the door to a life of authenticity, purpose, and true fulfillment. We can bring ourselves more in alignment with our deepest desires.

It's a journey that requires courage and persistence, but the rewards – a life lived true to ourselves and the opportunity to make a unique mark on the world – are immeasurable.

So ask yourself:

• What beliefs or expectations are holding you back from living your most authentic life?
• What would it look like to challenge those beliefs and chart a new course?
• What is standing in the way of you taking action?

The path of unlearning may not always be easy, but it's a journey worth taking – one that leads to freedom, self-discovery, and the opportunity to contribute to the world in a way that only you can.

If you're wanting to take steps to pursue work more in alignment with your heart and soul, you can get my Free Transition to Work You Love Guide here.

Be true to yourself and take steps to live a life of no regrets.

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Until next time,

LuRae

Be You and Be Free

p.s. For more inspiration to Be Free to live your most authentic life, join me on my new YouTube channel You Can Be Free.

p.p.s. I've recently launched 'and then I did this' - an audio/video Podcast highlighting the lives of individuals who've taken steps to live authentic lives - often leaving traditional 'jobs' to pursue work that inspires them. Join us each week on YouTube, Apple and Spotify Podcasts.