6 Ways to Break Free from Societal Expectations and Live Authentically

Feeling weighed down by societal expectations? Here are 6 actionable steps to help you break free and live more authentically:

• Get clear on your core values

• Stop comparing yourself to others

• Set boundaries around external expectations

• Surround yourself with like-minded people

• Take small steps toward authenticity

• Embrace vulnerability

In today’s world, it’s easy to feel like you’re living by someone else’s rules. Society tells us who we should be, how we should act, and what we should strive for, but trying to live up to those expectations can leave you feeling out of touch with who you really are. If you’re ready to break free from the weight of societal pressures and start living authentically, this post is for you.

Below are six practical ways to break free from societal expectations and embrace your true self.

1. Get Clear on Your Core Values

Breaking free from societal expectations starts with understanding what truly matters to you. Your core values—whether they’re rooted in honesty, creativity, freedom, or compassion—should guide your decisions. When you know what you stand for, it’s easier to ignore the noise of external expectations and make choices that align with your authentic self.

How to do it:

• Spend time journaling about what fulfills you on a deeper level.

• Write down your top three values and assess how well your current lifestyle aligns with them.

Pro tip: Need help clarifying your values? The Core Value Clarity Worksheet can help you get started.

2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Let’s be honest—comparison is the fastest way to lose sight of who you are. Every time you measure yourself against someone else, you stray further from your true self. Remember, no one else is living your life. The moment you stop comparing yourself to others is the moment you reclaim your own path.

How to do it:

• Limit your time on social media if it tends to make you feel inadequate.

• Practice self-affirmation daily by reminding yourself that your journey is unique and worthy.

Pro tip: Comparison won’t help you live authentically, but owning your individuality will.

3. Set Boundaries Around External Expectations

Societal expectations often sneak into our lives without us even noticing. Whether it’s pressure from family, friends, or even social media influencers, these external opinions can shape your choices if you’re not careful. Setting boundaries is key to staying true to yourself. Establish clear limits on how much weight you give to others’ opinions and let your values lead your decisions.

How to do it:

• Identify areas in your life where you feel pressured to conform.

• Start saying “no” more often when something doesn’t align with your authentic self.

Pro tip: Setting boundaries might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s an essential step toward living authentically.

4. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People

The people you spend time with have a major impact on how you see yourself. If you’re constantly surrounded by those who push you to conform, it’s tough to live authentically. Seek out relationships and communities that uplift and encourage you to be true to yourself.

How to do it:

• Look for communities that share your values, whether in person or online.

• Distance yourself from relationships that feel draining or that push you toward inauthenticity.

Pro tip: Authentic friendships and communities help you stay grounded in your truth, even when the world around you is pulling you in different directions.

5. Take Small Steps Toward Authenticity

Living authentically doesn’t require an overnight transformation. Small, consistent choices that reflect your true self can lead to meaningful changes over time. Whether it’s pursuing a passion you’ve put on hold or speaking up for what you believe in, taking small steps is a powerful way to align your life with your values.

How to do it:

• Start by expressing your opinions more openly, even if it feels uncomfortable.

• Pursue a hobby or interest you’ve always been passionate about but never made time for.

Pro tip: Small, authentic actions accumulate, making it easier to live your truth every day.

6. Embrace Vulnerability

Here’s the truth: living authentically requires vulnerability. When you decide to be your true self, you may face criticism or judgment. But vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s your greatest strength. Brené Brown, a leading researcher on vulnerability, explains that vulnerability is the birthplace of courage, creativity, and connection. When you embrace vulnerability, you open the door to more meaningful and authentic living. Learn more about Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability here.

How to do it:

• Acknowledge your fears, but don’t let them control your decisions.

• Understand that vulnerability is key to personal growth and deeper connections.

Pro tip: Embrace feedback, but don’t let it compromise your authenticity. Be open, but stay true to yourself.

Final Thoughts

Breaking free from societal expectations and living authentically is a journey, not a destination. It requires self-reflection, boundary-setting, and a commitment to your core values. But the reward? A life that feels meaningful, true, and fulfilling.

Start with these six steps, and remember—living authentically isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about making choices that reflect who you are, even in the face of pressure to conform.

Want to dive deeper into authenticity and self-discovery? Check out my previous blog post on Living Authentically: Embracing Your True Self in a World of Expectations. And don’t forget to grab your Core Value Clarity Worksheet to start reflecting on what matters most in your life.