Think for yourself

There are too many people telling you what to think and how to feel these days. Parents. Mentors. Therapists. Friends. Influencers. AI. The rise of social media and other tech gives us all the opportunity to get our thoughts and opinions out in ways previous generations could only do if they were famous. It's easier than ever to find someone with an opinion or story that matches your own, and to tell you what to do about it, even if there's zero consequence to them for saying it. If a celebrity you admire tells you to dump your girlfriend or boyfriend because you deserve better, should you listen? They're not the ones who have to deal with the fallout. Don't be sheep.

I get it, men like to listen to Andrew Tate for the same reason women like to listen to Alex Cooper: they acknowledge the pain you've been through. But just because they're right about the pain doesn't mean they're right about what to do with it. And their influence is even stronger if you've been hurt over and over again. But speaking as someone who has their own baggage if a person, culture, or tribe is convincing you to compromise your values, disrespect, or hurt others on the basis that they know better, or that they understand your trauma you should be very suspicious. Awful people exist yes, but so do good ones. And the way you think shapes who you attract.

Thinking for yourself isn't just about ignoring the bad voices though. Even the ones that mean well like your parents, pastor, friends, or therapist can hand you advice or a conclusion you've never actually felt or experienced yourself. Why should you follow their advice if their life experiences don't match yours? That doesn't mean you shouldn't listen to them, people who care about you generally mean well and having a counsel you can rely on is amazing. Especially if they challenge your thinking and push you to grow.

But the most important voice you should listen to? God. Obviously.

And yours.