What is true independence ?
Independence is discussed widely by almost everyone, beginning with children, youngsters to adults. This is one term that is also often misused and misinterpretered. We must therefore make an attempt to understand all its aspects completely in all dimensions. This is worth doing as it is makes us better people in all areas. This then creates societies, nations and ultimately, a better world. Let us all work on this beginning from today. As we know nothing happens automatically, everything in life is indeed a process and we need to walk in the right direction. For this, independence is very important.
True Independence is a profound and multifaceted concept that goes beyheond political freedom or superficial self-reliance. It encompasses inner liberation, self-mastery, and the ability to think and act authentically—free from external control, societal conditioning, or psychological dependencies. Here’s a deeper breakdown:
1. Inner Freedom
-
Freedom from Fear & Limiting Beliefs: True independence means overcoming self-doubt, societal expectations, and mental barriers. It’s the courage to live by your values, not others’ opinions.
-
Emotional Autonomy: Not being enslaved by emotions, attachments, or the need for validation. It’s the ability to find peace within, regardless of external circumstances.
2. Self-Sufficiency vs. Interdependence
-
Practical Independence: The ability to sustain yourself (financially, intellectually, or creatively) without exploitation or undue reliance on others.
-
Balanced Interdependence: True independence isn’t isolation—it’s choosing healthy connections consciously, not out of neediness or coercion.
3. Critical Thinking & Sovereignty of Mind
-
Freedom from Dogma: Questioning ideologies, media narratives, and cultural conditioning to form your own reasoned perspectives.
-
Resisting Manipulation: Not being a puppet to propaganda, consumerism, or peer pressure.
4. Responsibility & Accountability
-
Owning your choices, mistakes, and life direction without blaming others or playing the victim.
5. Spiritual Liberation (Optional but Profound)
-
For some, true independence is transcending ego, materialism, or illusion—realizing deeper truths beyond societal constructs.
Misconceptions:
-
Independence Rebellion or isolation.
-
It’s not selfishness but sovereignty—the power to choose how you engage with the world.
As we can see, independence does emcompass many aspects of our lives. This then needs to be an area we invest our time in. As in many areas of life, this shall surely happen slowly but surely and shall make ourselves proud of the journey we have followed in the life given to us. The creator shall surely be proud of his creation if we follow this path. There are bound to be challlenges and obstacles but this shall make us even stronger in our path of overcoming them to pursue the goal of our true independence. We shall then become people who people look up to as role models in their lives. All great people began their journey only by following these steps and we do need to learn these lessons from them. For this, we need determination and patience and nothing more. Most of all, we need to remember everything worth achieving takes time to fructify and therefore keep walking on the path towards independence and never give up.
By Jamuna Rangachari
