Ever since the day we are born, we are conditioned to the environment we are born into – It’s good, bad and ugly. In the initial years we just go with the flow, teenage we rebel and then get caught up In a world driven by routines, deadlines and the constant hustle to stay ahead. I knew why the earth revolved around the sun, our history and so much more… yet I was clue less about what I wanted? I mean beyond what I felt I was supposed to do… Who am I beneath it all? … What is my Purpose? After years of searching for the next big thing, chasing achievements, and fulfilling expectations, I’ve come to realise that the coolest thing I’ve ever discovered isn’t a gadget, a vacation spot, or even a hidden talent. It’s finding myself—the unfiltered, ever-evolving version of myself.

The Cool Factor of Finding Myself

So, why do I call this the coolest thing? Because there is a thrill in understanding yourself that no external achievement can match. Here’s why:

1. Confidence Without Comparison:

Knowing myself has brought a new kind of confidence, one that doesn’t rely on comparing myself to others. The coolest people I’ve met are those who stand firm in their identity, and I’m finally becoming one of them. I used to be like water, taking the shape of whatever environment I was placed in, carrying with me sediments of doubt and unwanted emotions… Now I no longer feel the need to mould myself to fit in; instead, I let my true self find its own space. This shift has made me more open-minded, less judgmental, and more comfortable engaging with people from all walks of life, without having rigid preconceived notions.

2. Freedom in Growth:

Finding myself isn’t about a rigid definition; it’s about embracing that I am a work in progress. It’s ok to make mistakes!.. Perfection isn’t about flawless execution—it’s about accepting that change is growth, not inconsistency. This realisation has given me the freedom to explore, learn new things and evolve without losing sight of my essence. Nobody else can give you this freedom other than yourself!

3. Harmony with Myself and Others:

Giving myself the freedom to make mistakes and expressing myself with confidence, has given me a peace of mind like never before. I have stopped feeling that nobody gets me! I get myself! …. and suddenly the whole world starts making sense… There’s no right or wrong, no good or evil… just perspectives! It’s easier to be around everybody because you don’t keep changing who you are to fit in.

What I Learned Along the Way

1. Self-Reflection Is a Superpower:

Taking the time to pause and ask, Why do I feel this way? Why is this bothering me so much? What do I really want from this situation? has been transformative. It has help me sieve out the unnecessary expectations and work on what’s really needed. Subtle emotions that would otherwise go unnoticed amongst the preoccupations, have become powerful guides in understanding myself better.

2. Start your day with an objective:

Setting daily objectives has been a game-changer. Just as an actor prepares for a role or a writer outlines a story, having a clear intention helps structure my day. It also brings a sense of fulfillment as I see myself making progress toward my bigger goals, one small step at a time.

3. Balance:

Finding the right balance in all aspects of life is the key. Balance between fulfilling your responsibilities vs getting some time by yourself, indulging versus maintaining discipline, pushing yourself vs going easy on yourself, etc. This point of balance differs from person to person, but once you find it you’ll notice that your happiest days are those when you strike it just right.

4. Letting Go:

This has been the toughest and the most important lesson in my life…. Letting go! To find myself, I had to tune out the noise of societal expectations and external opinions. This meant making choices that aligned with my values, even if they were unconventional or met with raised eyebrows. At the same time its also about letting others be themselves, not force your dreams/ values on them and not holding things against them if they don’t meet your expectation.If someone or something leaves your life…. something beyond your control…. its for the best…. for everybody involved…. you will realise it in time! Even though I know it’s time to let go, this still is the toughest of all to do, but the most liberating once done!

5. Embracing Imperfection:

I learned to accept that not every part of me is polished or perfect—and that’s okay. Embracing my flaws and vulnerabilities has not only made me more relatable but has also lightened the burden of trying to be someone I’m not.

Why It’s Worth It

The world can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to lose yourself in the chaos. But finding yourself—truly understanding what makes you happy, what fuels you, and what soothes your mind—is like having a secret map. It doesn’t mean the road will always be smooth, but you’ll know where you’re heading and why it matters. For me, that has been the most enriching, freeing, and undeniably cool journey of all.

Take the time to find yourself. Be brave enough to peel back the layers and meet the person underneath. Because once you do, you’ll discover that the best thing you could ever find was with you all along. And trust me, that’s a pretty cool realisation to have.

What are the 3 coolest things you’ve discovered about yourself?

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