Amale Bouzlafa

Making a choice to be who you want to be is a journey, not a destination. It’s a commitment to yourself, a promise to honor your true essence, and a step toward living a life that is authentic and fulfilling. We often find ourselves caught in the expectations of others, the pressures of society, and the limitations we impose on ourselves. Breaking free from these chains requires courage, self-awareness, and a deep understanding of who we truly are.

I have spent a significant part of my life struggling with self-doubt and insecurity. There were moments when I felt lost, unsure of my purpose, and disconnected from my true self. I was living a life dictated by external expectations, constantly trying to meet the standards set by others. It was exhausting and unfulfilling. I realized that I was not living my life; I was merely existing. One day, I made a conscious decision to change. I chose to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to peel back the layers of conditioning, and to reconnect with my authentic self. It wasn’t an easy process, and it didn’t happen overnight. It required introspection, honesty, and a willingness to face my fears and insecurities. But with each step I took, I felt a sense of liberation and empowerment.

The first step in making a choice to be who you want to be is to know yourself. This means taking the time to reflect on your values, passions, and strengths. It means understanding what makes you unique and embracing those qualities. For me, this process involved journaling, meditation, and seeking feedback from trusted friends and mentors. I discovered that I am passionate about helping others, that I value authenticity and integrity, and that I have a strength in connecting with people on a deep level. Once you have a clear understanding of who you are, the next step is to align your actions with your true self. This means making choices that reflect your values and passions, even if they go against the grain. It means being true to yourself, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. For me, this meant leaving a job that didn’t align with my values and pursuing a career that allows me to make a positive impact. It meant setting boundaries in my relationships and surrounding myself with people who support and uplift me.

Making a choice to be who you want to be also means letting go of limiting beliefs and negative self-talk. We all have an inner critic that tells us we’re not good enough, that we can’t achieve our dreams, or that we don’t deserve happiness. These beliefs are not the truth; they are stories we tell ourselves based on past experiences and fears. To overcome them, we need to challenge these beliefs and replace them with empowering thoughts. I started practicing positive affirmations, visualizing my success, and reminding myself of my worth and potential. Another important aspect of this journey is to embrace failure and setbacks as opportunities for growth. When we step out of our comfort zone and pursue our true path, we will inevitably face challenges. These challenges are not meant to discourage us. They are meant to teach us and help us grow. I have faced many obstacles on my journey, but each one has made me stronger and more resilient. I have learned to see failure as a stepping stone, not a block.

Support and accountability are also crucial in this journey. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, who encourage you, and who hold you accountable to your goals. I have been fortunate to have a supportive network of friends and guide who have been there for me every step of the way. They have provided guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear when I needed it most. Finally, making a choice to be who you want to be requires continuous effort and commitment. It’s not a one-time decision; it’s a daily practice. It means showing up for yourself every day, making choices that honor your true self, and being mindful of your actions and intentions. It means being patient and compassionate with yourself, knowing that growth is a process and that it’s okay to make mistakes.

In conclusion, making a choice to be who you want to be is a powerful and transformative journey. It’s about knowing yourself, aligning your actions with your true self, overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing failure, seeking support, and committing to your growth. It’s about living a life that is true to you, a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. Trust that by making this choice, you will not only transform your own life but also inspire others to do the same.

Trusting it will bring some light to someone’s shadow,

Amale 💫💙