How to Find Freedom Without Chasing Someone Else’s Life
Sitting on my balcony, soaking in the sun and the view, I can’t help but reflect on what freedom really means. Many people dream of traveling the world, but often feel limited by their circumstances—maybe their passport doesn’t open as many doors, or their country’s currency isn’t strong. Yet, even with these challenges, there are always ways to move forward, step by step.
Let’s take the example of someone from the Philippines. While their passport might not allow them to visit every country, they can still travel to many places in Asia. Instead of focusing on what’s out of reach, why not start with what’s possible? If your currency is weak, maybe the first step is to study or work in a country where the currency is stronger—like New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, or Japan. Over time, you’ll build up savings that have more value, and this can open up even more opportunities.
It’s easy to look at others and think they’re ahead, but life isn’t a race. The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday. If you’re making progress, even if it’s slow, you’re moving in the right direction. Focusing on what others have achieved will only lead to frustration and wasted energy. Instead, put that energy into your own journey, one step at a time.
Think of life as climbing a mountain. Each step brings you closer to the top. If you start with nothing in your bank account and a weak currency, maybe you need to look for freelance work in countries with stronger economies. In many developing countries, fixed-term deposit accounts offer high interest rates—sometimes 8 to 12%. This can be a powerful tool to grow your savings safely, unlike the risks of the stock market.
The real mistake most people make is comparing their inner struggles to the polished image others present. You can’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel. Maybe you’ve made huge progress in the last few days, weeks, or year. Focus on what you can do at your own level, and you’ll move forward much faster.
Every action counts. This is the power of the compound effect—a little progress every day adds up to big changes over time. Darren Hardy wrote a book about this, and the idea is simple: if you cut 300 calories a day, after a year you’ll feel and look completely different. The same goes for negative habits. If you indulge in cake and wine every night, the pounds add up, and so do the consequences.
This principle applies to every area of life. Each action, no matter how small, can change your life for better or worse. Be aware of what you do each day, because it all adds up.
Surrounding yourself with the right people and consuming positive content is just as important. You become what you consume—not just food, but also the information and ideas you feed your mind. Meditation is another habit that builds strength over time. Just a few minutes each day can help you control your thoughts and focus on what matters.
The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday. — Anonymous
Small, smart choices, completed consistently over time, lead to radical differences. — Darren Hardy
Comparison is the thief of joy. — Theodore Roosevelt
Key Takeaways
- Focus on your own progress, not others’ achievements.
- Take small steps—each one matters more than you think.
- Use what you have, where you are, and build from there.
- Be mindful of your habits; they shape your future.
- Surround yourself with positive people and content.
Reflection
- What’s one small step I can take today toward my own freedom?
- Am I comparing my journey to someone else’s highlight reel?
- What habits can I change, even a little, to improve my life over time?
Pierre-Henry Soria
#Comparison #Entrepreneurship #Life Reflections #Mindfulness #Money #Nomad #Personal Freedom #Productivity #Self-Acceptance #Self-Transcendence