But first, I want to apologise for the unannounced month-long break I took.

“The true value of a human being can be found in the degree to which he has attained liberation from the self.”

-Albert Einstein

So I asked myself: “What are some moments when I’ve felt liberated—when I could think and breathe freely?” and realised these small things were what made me feel so liberated.

1. Decluttering

Decluttering is one of the best things I did last year, and this year too. It felt absolutely amazing! Getting rid of clutter is so very liberating! Only keeping the things that spark joy is such a simple but such a effective idea. Decluttering makes my living space feel a lot more breathable and helps me think clearly.

“Clutter is the physical manifestation of unmade decisions fueled by procrastination.”

-Christina Scalise

Related post: Reviewing ‘The Life-changing Magic of Tidying’

2. Saying no

Saying no to unnecessary things. A couple of years ago I used to be ‘okay’ with what others chose for me or what they thought should happen, even though I did not like the idea or agree with them. Maybe because I wasn’t comfortable with confrontation or I tried to tell myself that that was what was right or it maybe simply out of respect— whatever the reason was, I was hardly ever verbal with my opinions and thoughts.

Later did I realise what I was doing to myself and how I was shaping others perception of my own self. Since I never said ‘no’ or asserted much, most people thought my opinion wasn’t really necessary because I would be ‘okay’ with anything, which was a pretty natural thing to think because of the way I was.

Saying no when an idea doesn’t sit well with me makes me feel liberated because I am doing justice to my own feelings and opinions.

“What you worry about, you tolerate.”

-Isabelle Mercier (in a TED Talk)

3. Meditation and gratitude

An early morning session of meditation is just what I need for a ‘great day’. Meditation helps me focus better and clear my mind. The feeling after is so peaceful. It helps me let go of worry and recurring thoughts and so I would definitely suggest you try it out.

Gratitude seems like such a simple (and lame) thing to do but effects are extremely satisfying. Scientifically speaking, when we express gratitude, our brain releases the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin (the ‘feel good’ chemicals). Now you see why gratitude is given so much importance?

“Plant yourself so deeply in gratitude that even the greatest of landslides cannot shake your peace.”

-Nicole Addison

4. Not caring about what others think

“Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.”

-Lao Tzu

This mindset shift was much needed for me. It set me free.

Now, it’s your turn. What were some experiences/ moments in your life when you felt the most liberated?