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Student Life

The Only Person You Should Live To Impress Is Yourself

As Bon Jovi once said, "It's my life; It's now or never; I ain't gonna live forever."

Emma Gallop

Mar 15, 2017

University of Maine

1993

The Only Person You Should Live To Impress Is Yourself

Emma Gallop

In today's society it's easy to get caught up trying to seek others’ approval of your life. It's not uncommon to find yourself comparing your life to other's on social media and always checking your number of likes. However, it’s your life and you need to focus on living it for you and not for anyone else.

For the longest time I was living my life trying to impress others. I would find myself seeking their approval on what I was doing; making sure that my life was riveting, charming and thrilling. But who gets to define what your life is? You do; not people on the outside. Just because your life doesn't match somebody else's does not mean that it isn't exciting and full.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned that I shouldn’t be living my life for anyone else but myself. Once I started living my life for myself, everything was much more enjoyable and everything seemed easier. I am no longer ashamed to love the things I love or afraid to express who I am.

The biggest thing I've learned is that not everything you do needs an explanation. I have no one to prove myself to or anyone to validate that I'm living my life right. If I want a tattoo, you can bet I'm getting one; even if it doesn’t have a deeply rooted meaning behind it. If I want to stay home, it’s okay to miss that party. I don’t need to post a fire Instagram picture of my outfit, when I'd rather post one of a sunset instead.

No matter your choices, live your life. Don’t ever forget you're living for yourself. You don't owe anyone anything. You don't owe a single explanation or a reason for your choices throughout your life. Not everything you do needs an explanation. Be spontaneous.

Your life is illustrated by you, so go ahead and start writing it yourself. This is your life, so go fill it up with unforgettable memories and moments.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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