We’ve been conditioned to measure success by outcomes—by what others can see, validate, or approve. When we focus solely on results, we freeze. The fear of failure—or even success—can become paralyzing because we’re not just thinking about our own journey; we’re looking at ourselves through the expectations of others.
The insight in this screenshot struck me deeply. I know this perspective, but seeing it framed this way—effort versus outcome—reminds me why I sometimes feel stuck. The unconscious fear of moving forward, the layers of self-doubt, and the external pressures make it easy to avoid rather than try. But when I shift my focus to effort, something changes.
Whatever the outcome, I’ve done my best for today. And that’s enough. Some days, I’ll have more energy; other days, I’ll have less. But when I stop judging myself, I stop being so hard on the world too.
Shame thrives in stagnation. But effort? Effort is the antidote. One step forward, however small, is still movement. And that’s where freedom begins.
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