"到头来，你必须为自己而活。"

Living your life for yourself is about being true to your own needs, desires, and values rather than conforming to others' expectations. It’s about finding what genuinely makes you happy and fulfilled, and having the courage to pursue it.

Historically, this concept has roots in the philosophy of existentialism, which emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and personal responsibility. Think back to the 20th century when thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre championed the idea that we are free to create our own paths in life. Sartre believed that living authentically—being true to oneself—is a fundamental aspect of human existence.

Now, imagine a person who’s always dreamt of being an artist but ends up in a corporate job because that’s what their parents wanted. They might earn a decent salary, have job security, and even some prestige—but they feel a profound emptiness inside. This is a common scenario. They’re living someone else’s version of success, not their own. One day, they decide to quit their job and pursue art full-time. It’s risky, and people might think they’re making a mistake. But for the first time in years, they feel alive, passionate, and genuinely happy.

For you, living your life for yourself might look different. Maybe it’s about choosing a career that excites you, even if it doesn’t pay the most. Or perhaps it’s about setting boundaries with friends or family who try to dictate your choices. It might even be as simple as spending your free time doing what you love, whether that’s hiking, painting, or binge-watching your favorite shows—without guilt.

Here’s some advice on how to apply this wisdom: start by getting to know yourself better. Reflect on what truly makes you happy and what you want out of life. Journaling can help, or even just some quiet time thinking. Once you’ve got a clearer picture, begin setting small, actionable goals to align your life with those desires. It’s not about making drastic changes overnight but taking consistent steps towards a life that feels authentic to you.

Let’s look at a relatable scenario. Imagine you’re at a crossroads in your career. You’ve got a stable job, but it’s not fulfilling. You’ve always wanted to write a novel, but you’re scared of the uncertainty that comes with pursuing writing full-time. You might worry about financial instability or what others will think. But here’s the thing: if you don’t at least give it a shot, you’ll always wonder ‘what if’. Start writing in your spare time, join a writing group, or take a creative writing course. It’s about making room for your passions and seeing where they lead.

Living your life for yourself isn’t about being selfish or disregarding others’ feelings. It’s about recognizing that your happiness and fulfillment matter. It’s your life—don’t spend it living someone else’s dream. Be brave, trust yourself, and remember that at the end of the day, you’re the one who has to live with your choices. So make them count.