Inhibition, although less obvious, can pose significant barriers to our personal growth and fulfillment. For some of us, the primary roadblock to a thriving life stems from deep-seated hesitance to express our desires, acknowledge our talents, and chase our goals with determination, planning, and bravery. Such restraint can be misinterpreted as politeness and introversion when, in fact, it is a harmful manifestation of self-doubt, making us ashamed of our aspirations and, fundamentally, our own identities.

The tendency to remain subdued often originates from a misperception that outspokenness equates to dramatic life changes and causing displeasure to others. Therefore, the fear of inciting conflict or disorder often prompts us to shy away. However, assertiveness need not always imply drastic transformations or confrontations. We can instead view the act of speaking up as a gradual shift, rather than an upheaval; attempting small, confidence-boosting steps to gently chip away at our debilitating self-effacement.

Here are a few simple, daily actions that could guide us towards a more liberated existence:

1. Celebrating our achievements People who are timid often live in fear of seeming arrogant. Consequently, they downplay their achievements. They attribute their successes to luck publicly, while privately bracing for impending failures. Occasionally, it would be beneficial to recognize and express pride in our successes and strengths.
2. Confronting rather than avoiding fear We typically regard our fears as trustworthy warning signals. If we’re reluctant to attend a party, we conclude that social events are threatening. If we’re hesitant to start a new project, we deem the risks as insurmountable. But these fears might be baseless, stemming from an ingrained lack of self-confidence. In some instances, it might be necessary to disregard these false alarms and move forward courageously.
3. Prioritize our needs over others We generally tend to prioritize the feelings of others, often at the cost of our own. However, there might be situations where we need to assert ourselves, even if it disrupts someone else’s convenience. This does not imply being obstinate, but upholding our principles when they are important.
4. Be open to flirtation Inhibited individuals often feel hesitant to show their interest in others or to accept their likability. But there’s a universal longing for connection in everyone that we might just be able to fulfill.
5. Allow yourself some downtime We tend to fear being labeled as lazy, so we overcompensate with rigorous work schedules. But it might be beneficial to resist this self-imposed torment occasionally and indulge in some rest or leisure.
6. Indulge in self-care Inherent shame often makes us deny ourselves pleasure. But for the sake of mental well-being, it might be beneficial to break away from our routine and occasionally pamper ourselves, be it through daydreaming, buying something nice, or enjoying our favorite dessert.
7. Recognize your worth You are, despite your flaws, a unique piece of the cosmic jigsaw. You share the same life essence that has contributed to remarkable accomplishments and breakthroughs. You too have your moments of brilliance and insight.

This brings us to a revolutionary idea: you deserve to exist. You are not intrinsically flawed. You are entitled to love and be loved. You can make peace with who you are, your desires, and your past mistakes. You can take baby steps towards freedom without upsetting the world’s balance.