Siddarth Shukla

Don’t follow instructions blindly

In life, we often find ourselves stuck in a state of emotional paralysis, held back by expectations from family, society, and long-standing traditions. This conflict—between fulfilling external expectations and following our own path—can leave us feeling dejected and confused. Beyond personal expectations, we also unquestioningly follow outdated institutions that shape our economic and political lives. Whether it’s the central banks’ fiat money policy or the two-party democratic system, these institutions, much like old customs, demand scrutiny in the modern world.

The Trap of Living by Expectations

We all face moments when the pressure of family and societal expectations leads us to act in ways that go against our true selves. Often, we conform to these expectations out of fear—fear of disappointing others, fear of being judged, or fear of failure. But many of these customs and societal norms no longer hold the value they once did. They neither bring us glory nor contribute to our happiness.

These norms may never have been rooted in higher truths or spiritual growth. Instead, they have persisted simply because no one questioned them. Following these outdated customs blindly is an act of ignorance, especially when they conflict with our inner sense of what is morally right and beneficial for our personal development.

Breaking Free from the Shackles of Customs

Not every tradition or expectation is worth following. Just because it has been done for generations doesn’t mean it’s right for you today. Customs that don’t promote your spiritual, emotional, or mental well-being should be questioned. In modern life, we often find ourselves trapped in jobs, relationships, or roles that no longer serve our higher purpose, but we continue because it’s what others expect from us.

The challenge is to ask yourself: Are these expectations aligned with my values and true purpose? If not, it’s time to break free from these chains of ignorance. Let go of the need to live up to external validation and focus on what brings you personal growth and happiness.

Parallels in Societal Institutions: Following Blindly

This same principle applies not just in our personal lives, but in the institutions we unquestioningly accept. Much like outdated family traditions, institutions such as the central banks and the two-party political system continue to dominate, even though they may no longer serve the interests of the people.

• Fiat Money and Central Banks:
  For decades, central banks have controlled the money supply through fiat currency, which has led to inflation, economic inequality, and instability. Yet, people continue to trust this system without question. The rise of decentralized currencies like Bitcoin offers an alternative to this system, one that promotes financial sovereignty and resists inflationary policies. But the public’s reluctance to adopt new systems often stems from a blind trust in long-standing institutions, even when they no longer work in their favor.
• The Two-Party Political System:
  Similarly, many of us are stuck in the belief that the two-party democratic system offers the best way to govern. However, this system often creates polarization, with little room for nuanced, local solutions. Governments need to be more localized, allowing for greater responsiveness to community needs. The current system often prioritizes national politics over localized solutions, leaving communities to suffer the consequences.

A Lesson in Ignorance

Just as we sometimes follow traditions that don’t serve us personally, we often stick to institutions that are no longer in line with the needs of the modern world. Emotional paralysis—whether in life or in the acceptance of broken systems—comes from living up to expectations that don’t align with our true values or the needs of our community. When we act based on what others expect, without grounding it in what is truly right for us, we experience inner conflict and frustration.

Letting Go of Fear and Judgment

The fear of disappointing others—whether it’s family or society—often keeps us stuck in outdated patterns. We continue following old norms because stepping outside them feels risky or wrong. The same goes for societal institutions—many people fear the unknown, preferring the broken system they know to an alternative that challenges the status quo.

However, true growth—both individually and collectively—comes from letting go of judgment and embracing new paths. We need to understand that not all traditions, customs, or systems bring genuine happiness or progress. Some are simply remnants of a past that no longer serves us. Breaking free from them is essential for creating a more fulfilling life and a more effective society.

Real-Life Application:

In both personal and societal realms, here are the questions you should ask yourself:

1. Whose expectations am I trying to meet?
2. Do these expectations align with my true values and purpose?
3. Are the customs, traditions, or institutions I follow helping me grow, or are they holding me back?

Recognizing when you’re living by others’ expectations, rather than your own truth, is the first step toward breaking free from emotional paralysis. Similarly, questioning the institutions and systems that govern our lives can lead to better, more localized solutions that address the real needs of people and communities.

Conclusion:

The burden of expectations—whether personal or societal—can lead to emotional paralysis, confusion, and inaction. By questioning outdated customs and systems, we free ourselves from the chains of ignorance. True progress, both in life and society, comes when we let go of fear, step outside the expectations of others, and align our actions with our authentic purpose. Whether it’s breaking free from a family tradition that no longer serves you or questioning the institutions that shape our economic and political lives, the journey to self-realization and social progress begins with the courage to challenge the status quo.