There comes a point where you start to wonder: Am I doing this because I want to, or because others expect me to? Maybe it’s about school, how you act, or who you’re trying to be. That question matters — because it’s about freedom.

During the teen years, we become more aware of others’ opinions. The brain gets better at reading social cues, but sometimes it gets so busy understanding others that it forgets to listen inward. That’s when you start living on autopilot — and suddenly, you feel empty.

Living your own life doesn’t mean shutting people out. It means asking yourself: What’s important to me? What makes me feel alive? Sometimes your answers won’t match what others want — but that’s how truth begins. It takes courage to choose for yourself, especially when it means not fitting in. But that’s where self-respect grows.

Alma’s tips:

Start small — your clothes, your music, how you spend your time. Ask: “Do I want this, or do I just want to please someone else?” The more you listen inward, the stronger you’ll feel. Your life is yours — no one else can live it for you. And the most beautiful thing you can become is yourself, fully and honestly.