Breathe
By Jacqueline Camacho
In my childhood memories, the power of choice seemed as simple as deciding whether I wanted to go out and play or be immersed in the pages of a book. In those times, my inner voice resonated with astonishing clarity, prioritizing my wants and needs over the expectations of others.
However, as I moved into the complexity of adolescence, the symphony of choices became more complicated. My decisions were no longer based solely on my own desire, but on trying to fill the voids of others, to fit in and belong to a pre-established mold. No" became a weaker echo, stifled by the fear of losing friendships or challenging self-imposed boundaries.
It was in adulthood that I experienced a change that removed every perspective. In the beginning, I was immersed in the illusion of happiness by following the rules set by others. I said "yes" to avoid losing more relationships in my life, but as I said more "yeses," I realized I was losing myself. In that revelation, "no" emerged as a beacon, lighting the way to authenticity.
I discovered that saying "no" was not a selfish act, but an affirmation of deep self-love. This self-love is not the romantic one that is often mentioned, but the one born from the discomfort of saying "no", freeing me from relationships that no longer fit in my life. Each refusal became a pillar of my identity, in the ability to say "no" I found the freedom to be the creator, writer and narrator of my own story.
Over the years and challenges, each choice became a tool to sculpt my dreams and shape my life. Setting boundaries became an art form, outlining the contours of my existence. I left behind the burden of filling my life with the expectations and dreams of others by learning that my destiny was a blank canvas ready to be painted with the nuances of my choices.
Each "no" uttered led me to new adventures, revealing unexplored versions of myself. In the process, I left people along the way, but I also added those who appreciated my authenticity. I recognized that the power of choice is not only a privilege, but a responsibility. If I did not give it the importance it deserves, I would not be able to live my life fully or take responsibility for every choice.
Thus, with each "no" courageously pronounced, I affirmed myself as the architect of my destiny. In each choice, in each limit set, I found the magic that connects me to the very essence of who I am. The story of my life is woven with threads of conscious choices, and in each chapter, I celebrate myself as the true creator of my own destiny.
I'm Jacquie Camacho, a nature lover and always curious. Designer and social media manager at Opinión 51.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
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