As Millennials, we tend to romanticize things, especially our lives. Instead of thinking pragmatically, we like to go with our gut and trust our instincts. We dream about fighting back against the norms that we are told exist and dare to be different. We want to resist what society has told us to do and rather live without hindrance; But do we actually? We want to go off and have these amazing adventures, yet, we work tirelessly to find a job and save money. We dream about a cross-country road trip, but we can barely make it to the supermarket down the street. We imagine having this amazing night on the town, but when the time comes we often find ourselves too comfy in our sweats and sipping a glass of wine at home instead.
We are dreamers, it’s true, but in what sense? With graduation swiftly approaching, I have begun to analyze my time spent at college and the future that waits in the real world. Have I lived these past four years to the fullest? Am I making decisions that will secure my happiness in the years to come? I am often torn and feel guilty about how I have chosen to spend my time. While being a party girl is not in my nature, should I have removed my sweatpants and explored the nightlife scene a couple more nights? Should I have attempted a big city job rather than opt to stay close to home?
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To be honest, no one knows the answer. What I do know is that we have to do what makes us happy, no matter what. We need to live in the moment and be fully present, whether we are doing something crazy adventurous or simply sitting with our roommate over a glass of wine. Just because we are not cliff jumping or taking New York City by storm, doesn’t mean that we aren’t living our lives to the absolute fullest. We need to take each moment as it comes and bask in its glory no matter what that moment may be.
We also must live fearlessly simply in our relationships. It may seem small, but the impact it could make is monumental. What if we opened ourselves up to not only receiving love, but giving love as well? What if we took a chance on someone? What would happen if you finally braved the unknown and end a relationship that is holding you back? What if we finally said what we have always wanted to say to someone, whether good or bad, and finally became unafraid of what that could mean? What if we lived truthfully and honestly, not only with others, but also with ourselves?
I think the key to happiness is a recipe. This recipe calls for three things: fearlessness, gratefulness and love. If we love who we are and those around us then we must be grateful for what we have and what life has given us. When we have that love and recognize how lucky we are to simply be alive, we have the foundation to live more fearlessly. That's it. A simple recipe is all we need.
So, being fearless doesn’t mean we have to skydive, but rather it means that we are unafraid to be our truest selves. It means that we are unafraid to let happiness fill our hearts, spirits and minds. It means that we are open to giving and receiving as much love as we possibly can. It means that we are grateful and thankful for every breath we take and the amazing world that surrounds us.
So, go forth. Be open. Be honest. Be yourself. Live life fearlessly.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
