"Trato cada vez más de ser yo mismo, preocupándome relativamente poco si la gente aprueba o desaprueba."

Being true to yourself, regardless of whether people approve or not, is all about embracing authenticity and self-acceptance. It means living your life in a way that feels right to you, rather than constantly bending to fit others' expectations or seeking their approval. It's a call to be genuine and to trust in your own values and decisions.

Historically, this kind of sentiment has been echoed by many influential figures who have emphasized self-reliance and individualism. Think about Ralph Waldo Emerson, the 19th-century philosopher, and his famous essay, "Self-Reliance." He encouraged people to trust themselves and to follow their own path, even if that path is unconventional or misunderstood by others. Emerson's time was one of great social and cultural change, and his ideas were a kind of counterbalance to the pressure to conform.

Let's bring it down to a more personal level with a real-life example. Imagine you're at a career crossroads, and everyone around you—family, friends, colleagues—thinks you should take the high-paying corporate job. But deep down, you know you want to start your own business, even if it means a less stable income at first. Choosing to follow your passion, even when others disapprove, is a perfect demonstration of staying true to yourself. It's about having the courage to say, "This is my life and I'll live it my way."

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start small. Practice saying "no" to things that don't align with your values or interests. If you're someone who loves solitude and reading, don't feel pressured to attend every social event just because your friends want you to. It's okay to prioritize your own needs. Also, surround yourself with people who respect and support you for who you are, not for who they want you to be. This can make it easier to stand firm in your choices.

Here's a little story to illustrate the concept. Picture a woman named Lisa. Lisa has always loved painting. It's her passion. But her parents wanted her to become a lawyer because it seemed like a safer career choice. She went to law school, graduated, and started working at a big law firm. But she was miserable. Every day, she felt like she was living someone else's life. One day, she decided she'd had enough. She quit her job and opened a small art studio. Her parents were initially disappointed and worried about her financial future. But Lisa didn't let that deter her. She focused on her art, shared her work online, and gradually built a following. Years later, she not only made a living doing what she loved but also felt incredibly fulfilled.

This story shows that when you commit to being yourself—truly and unapologetically—you pave the way for personal happiness and success on your own terms. It won't always be easy, and not everyone will understand your choices, but that's okay. Life is too short to live by someone else's script. So, trust yourself, be brave, and embrace the unique person you are.