The Buck Stops Here: Embracing Self-Trust and Authenticity

Happy September 1st!

As we step into September, I want to share some reminders for those who, like me, have spent much of their lives seeking reassurance and comfort through validation and opinions. I’ve realized that constantly seeking approval can hold us back—maybe it’s holding you back too. As I was writing this, I heard Spirit say, “the buck stops here.” To me, this means it’s time to take responsibility for our own sense of self-worth and stop relying on others for validation. Spirit is reminding us that we have the power to change our narrative and that we don’t need to look outside ourselves for approval.

The cycle of seeking external reassurance ends now. It’s time to trust ourselves and recognize that the answers we seek are already within us. While constructive criticism and considering others’ perspectives can be valuable, they shouldn’t define your sense of self. You have to look within and hold onto what truly feels right for you.

With this in mind, here are some reminders as we move into September:

Everyone views the world through their own lens. People’s perspectives are shaped by their experiences, emotions, and beliefs, which influence how they see and interpret things. Life is about growing through the ups and downs, and each of us has our own unique path to navigate. When we allow others’ perspectives to carry too much weight, we subconsciously give away our power. It’s important to recognize when we do this and ask ourselves why. We shouldn’t let others’ thoughts and opinions dictate how we move forward. Sometimes, these interactions are a reminder from the universe that the true power lies within us.

Constructive criticism can be helpful, but it's important to only take what resonates. Feedback can help us grow, but it’s crucial to trust your inner compass. I’m learning that I don’t need others to dictate how I live my life. I love hearing different perspectives and enjoy the companionship of others, but I'm learning to filter these inputs—embracing only what feels right to me and letting go of the rest. If I lived my life based on others’ opinions, I wouldn’t be living for myself. Life is about truly living—embracing mistakes and learning from them. The best lessons often come through trial and error, and there is real growth in "failing forward."

Remember, people are imperfect and flawed. Whether it’s advice from friends, family, or even a stranger, everyone brings their own biases and experiences to the table. I’ve learned that people’s perspectives are often shaped by their own experiences and challenges, and they may project their feelings of lack or insecurity onto you. It’s essential to keep this in mind when you receive feedback. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t internalize it. That is their journey, not yours.

God, spirit, or the universe brings people into our lives for a reason. Every interaction is an opportunity to grow, heal, or learn something we need at that moment. I've started to notice my tendency to seek validation by constantly asking, “Am I doing this right? Am I on the right track?” This habit has been holding me back from living my truth and embracing my authenticity. I’m realizing that the responses I get—whether they lift me up or bring me down—are simply reminders that the answers I seek are already within me. It’s also a nudge to check in with myself: Does this align with me? If not, I let it go. At the end of the day, this is my life, and I am the creator of my own path. While I appreciate feedback, it doesn’t define me—and it shouldn't define you either.

Always go within and trust your intuition. Your path is uniquely yours. Opinions can offer guidance, but they are not set in stone. You have the power of free will to choose your direction. Spirit has always reminded me that energy flows and nothing is fixed; we can share and encourage others, but ultimately, it's up to each person to decide what best fits their authentic life. NOTE: There is no wrong decision or movement forward; every choice we make leads us into perfect alignment with who we are meant to be. You can never truly step off your path or make a wrong move because, here on Earth, every experience contributes to our growth, and all roads lead to the same destination.

Sharing my experiences can offer guidance, but the choices are yours alone. I believe that the lessons I learn help me become a better guide and advocate, allowing me to grow into the best version of myself, in turn, helping me facilitate my goal to inspire others and share my insights while always honoring everyone’s free will and respecting those who choose to live authentically and stay true to themselves.

As we wrap up this blog post, I want to leave you with this: always take what resonates with you. Trust your inner voice, honor your intuition, and remember that your dreams, wants, and needs are valuable. Don't let anyone steal your shine or tell you how to live, no matter how much you love and respect them. Opinions are just opinions, and even with the best intentions, you can’t internalize them or live by someone else’s rules. Ultimately, the true power over your life lies within you. Until next time, take care and be true to yourself.

With love and light,

Laura (Northern Light Lotus)

Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/northernlightlotus

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