Living for Your Own Gaze: Self-Love, Inspiration, and Embracing Unapologetic Awareness

There’s a unique power in living unapologetically for yourself. Showing up in your truth, embracing your own beauty, and pursuing your goals without seeking validation from others. Let’s talk about something just as important: the value of being inspired by someone else’s journey. It’s a fine balance, one that allows you to stay true to your gaze while celebrating the uniqueness of others. 

Staying True to Your Gaze

For so long, I felt like I needed to fit into a mold or meet the expectations others had for me. Whether it was societal standards, family expectations, or even the opinions of friends, I constantly felt the pressure to live my life through someone else’s lens. But at some point, I realized: that the only gaze that truly matters is my own. When I started focusing on what made me feel alive and fulfilled, everything shifted. Accomplishing my goals while taking care of myself (mentally, physically, and emotionally) became my priority. I learned that there’s nothing vain or shallow about wanting to look and feel good. Showing up for yourself isn’t selfish... it’s very necessary.

The Danger of Humility Misunderstood

There’s a common narrative that tells us to be humble, not to take up too much space, and to tone ourselves down so others don’t feel uncomfortable. But here’s the truth: humility doesn’t mean shrinking yourself. You can be humble and still shine. You can acknowledge your strengths and still lift others. Don’t let anyone make you feel like self-love or self-pride is arrogance. You deserve to celebrate yourself, just as much as you deserve to celebrate others.

Finding Inspiration in Others

Sometimes, “living for your gaze” can feel isolating, as though you’re supposed to shut out everyone else and only focus on yourself. The truth is, being inspired by someone else’s journey is a beautiful thing. Seeing someone else succeed, embrace their uniqueness, or overcome obstacles doesn’t take anything away from you. It can fuel you. 

I’ve been inspired countless times by the people around me. Whether it’s someone sharing their story of perseverance or just owning who they are without apology. It reminds me that we all have something to bring to the table. It’s not about comparison... it’s about admiration. You can be inspired by someone else without losing sight of your path.

Shift Your Focus

Instead of worrying about the negative thoughts that can come from the outside or in your own head. You need to redirect your energy. Think about the people who may be inspired by you and your journey. Your story, your growth, and your ambition—Those things truly matter. Every time you choose to show up for yourself; you're paving the way for others to believe they can do the same as well. 

Final Thoughts

Living for your own gaze is about embracing who you are and where you’re going, however, it doesn’t mean ignoring the beauty in others. Celebrate their wins, draw inspiration from their strengths, and continue to show up for yourself. The world doesn’t need you to be a carbon copy of anyone else; it needs you to be unapologetically, uniquely you. While doing so, you’ll inspire others to do the same.