Everywhere, all the time, we’re surrounded by messages telling us the “rules” for how to live.
Yet no one seems to truly follow those rules, especially not the people you admire.
Even the device you’re reading this on — Apple, Android, Microsoft — did you really choose it? Or was it just one more thing you were told to want?
We’ve always been influenced. In the early days, it was the Ad Men. Now it’s some perfect-looking person staring into the camera, telling you (and only you, because you’re their “bestie” in your head) about the next incredible thing you supposedly need.
None of this is new or earth-shattering. You might be asking, So what?
But when I first learned how insidious mimetic desires could be, I deleted my social media accounts for two years. I wanted to figure out how much of my life was truly mine, and how much was me being told what to want.
It was the best decision I’ve ever made.
During those two years, I built deeper real-life friendships, became a more intentional and present parent, and discovered that writing was something I’ve always loved but never allowed myself to pursue.
I wonder what you’d discover about yourself if no one was telling you what to think.