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Obligations Don’t Exist: The Truth About Choices and Freedom of Will
Obligations don’t exist. It’s a shocker, but it’s true. They are societal constructs that make me believe that I have no choice. The truth is everything is a choice, and every choice has consequences. If I want to do what I’m being asked, then it’s no longer an obligation. However, if I don’t want to do what’s being asked, then I have a choice between the fear of the consequences or the love for myself. I am made to believe that fear of the consequences is the only option because no one has ever taught me to choose myself. No one ever told me I was a part of the equation.
“When you’re clear on the consequences of your actions, you can navigate stress and adversity with a clear head, making decisions that align with your values and goals”
I must remember that obligations are not always externalized. I give myself obligations as well. Take a look at the beginning of this paragraph. There are instances where I say that I must do something, but do I? I’m hungry. I must eat something. Does this mean that I’m powerless over my cravings? The silence is kind of awkward. I should say something. But why? Why do I always feel controlled even when I’m not controlled? Awareness should tell me to ask the question, “Who’s the one demanding me to do these things?”
Give Me Equality
Why don’t I like obligations? It creates a power dynamic in a relationship. When I am forced to do something, it says that the person doing the forcing has power over me. In a country based on equality, it’s hard to see where the equality is with rules and regulations. In organizations with the value of equality, it’s hard to see where the equality is with rules and regulations, whether they be written or not. When I’m forced to do something it should trigger a realization that there is an imbalance of power.
It reminds me that I am the only one who controls myself. Even that sentence doesn’t work for me. I don’t want to control myself. I want myself to be free from obligations, even if those demands are made by me. As a human being who projects my thoughts outwardly, I must remember that I don’t want to demand anything from anyone else. It’s the golden rule. “Treat others as you’d like to be treated.”
I Do What I Want
If I don’t want obligations for myself, I don’t want to demand things of others, and I don’t want others to demand things of me… obligations don’t exist. I am only responsible for doing the things that I want to do. That also means shifting my mindset from one of consequence to one of opportunity. I don’t wear a seatbelt because I’m forced by the law to do it. Instead, I want to wear a seatbelt because it statistically saves lives in a car accident. I volunteer because I believe in what I’m volunteering for and want to contribute, not because I’m forced to. Does that mean I follow the rules? Sometimes, I have to if I want to live in this world. The best part about knowing the rules is knowing when to break them.
Questions and Responses
Are obligations truly just societal constructs?
Yes, obligations are often societal constructs that create a sense of duty. However, they are not absolute. Every action we take is a choice, and understanding this can empower us to act freely rather than out of fear or coercion.
How can I shift my mindset to view obligations as choices?
To shift your mindset, focus on the consequences and opportunities of each choice. Reframe obligations by asking yourself, “Do I truly want to do this?” and align your actions with your values and desires.
Can personal obligations be harmful?
Yes, self-imposed obligations can lead to unnecessary stress if left unchecked. Becoming aware of when and why you create obligations for yourself allows you to assess their necessity and let go of those that don’t serve you.
What does it mean to live without obligations?
Living without obligations means understanding that every action is a choice. Instead of feeling controlled by external demands, you act based on your values and desires, embracing freedom and personal responsibility.
Why do we fear the consequences of not fulfilling obligations?
Fear of consequences often arises from societal conditioning and the need for approval. By recognizing this, you can choose to act from self-love and purpose rather than fear.
How can I balance personal freedom with societal rules?
Balancing personal freedom with societal rules involves understanding which rules align with your values. You follow them when they serve a greater purpose or benefit, and you challenge them when they conflict with your sense of self.