Introduction: Freedom is best done in collaboration with others.
I’m a fan of individualism to an extent to which we also balance a sense of community. As children, many of us dream of a future where we can do anything we want. We picture a life filled with endless freedom, where the world is our oyster and there are no limits to what we can achieve. But as we grow up, we begin to realize something: this vision of limitless freedom doesn’t always hold up in the real world. Instead of being free to do anything, we find ourselves more accountable to others than ever before. And that’s okay—because it’s not about doing whatever you want; it’s about doing what’s best for others and finding meaning in connection. Freedom is best done in collaboration with others.
The Illusion of “Do Whatever You Want”: When we were kids, we probably thought, “When I grow up, I can do whatever I want!” It’s a thought that makes the future seem limitless. However, the truth is that adulthood is built on accountability—to our families, our communities, and our responsibilities. The notion that you can do anything you want without consequences or impact on others is not just impractical—it’s unhealthy.
In fact, it’s quite the opposite. As adults, we become more accountable to others, not less. From managing family obligations to being responsible at work, the notion of “doing whatever I want” becomes increasingly unrealistic. And it’s not just about accountability; it’s about living in a way that is meaningful to those around you. A life solely focused on personal desires can quickly lead to isolation. Living solely for oneself often ignores the needs and welfare of others, whether it’s your partner, your children, or your community.
The Problem with Self-Centered Behaviors: When we think about freedom and doing whatever we want, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of individualism. But unchecked freedom can sometimes lead to self-centered behaviors that harm relationships, careers, and communities. Selfishness can lead to frustration, loneliness, and a sense of emptiness. It doesn’t matter how successful someone is in their career or personal life—if they aren’t focused on the people around them, their life may feel devoid of meaning.
The Danger of Thinking “You Should Be Able to Do Whatever You Want”: It’s important to acknowledge early that personal freedom and choice are vital. Yes, you should be able to make your own decisions, and it’s noble to have the resources, accomplishments, and freedom to live as you choose. But here’s the catch: complete freedom without accountability to others often leads to chaos. We can’t assume that every choice will be a wise or responsible one, and thinking that we can make choices that never affect others is dangerous.
The self-centered ideology that suggests you should always be able to do whatever you want, regardless of the consequences, undermines the importance of personal responsibility. Every decision we make has the potential to influence others, and in the long run, this influence will shape our legacy. Freedom is something we do together. Whether it’s a parent trying to provide for their children, a partner building a relationship, or a leader guiding a team, the most meaningful actions come from considering what’s best for others.
The True Meaning of Purpose and Legacy: As we mature, we realize that meaning and purpose are not found in pursuing our own desires without concern for others. True fulfillment is found in touching the lives of others. Meaning comes from helping those around us—whether through kindness, mentorship, or acts of service. We are not meant to live solely for ourselves; we are here to make the world better by helping others along the way.
Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or contributing to a cause, it’s the impact you have on others that gives your life its true meaning. Purpose is about building up those around you. The more you invest in others, the more profound your sense of fulfillment and legacy becomes.
Conclusion: The truth is simple: we are not meant to live in isolation, pursuing personal desires with no regard for others. Accountability is a core part of being human—it keeps us grounded, responsible, and connected to those around us. And while it’s important to have the freedom to make our own choices, we must balance that with a deep awareness of how our choices affect others. After all, life is about building relationships, making meaningful connections, and using our freedom to help as many people as possible.
So, as we grow, let’s shift our focus from “doing whatever we want” to doing what’s best for others—because that’s where true fulfillment and meaning are found.
Resources:
- Building Meaningful Connections: The Importance of Helping Others
- Living with Purpose: How to Find Meaning in Your Work and Life
- The Power of Accountability: Why It’s Key to Your Success
To find similar content, search keywords like “accountability,” “purpose,” “meaningful connections,” and “self-centered behaviors.”
