I recently listened to Adam Grant’s WorkLife podcast in which he interviewed fitness world powerhouse Robin Arzón about redefining hustle culture. The title resonated deeply with me because I have been living a life of hustle culture that I only realized in recent years doesn’t serve me or those around me.
However, the most valuable nugget of information I took away from this episode is the notion that instead of striving to be our best self, we find greater joy and fulfillment in striving to be our favorite self.
It’s my belief that the idea of a “best” self is laden with expectations that aren’t our own. Expectations programmed into us by our family of origin or society or some other external sources.
My favorite self, on the other hand, is wholly my own to determine. And what greater power is in there than self-determination and agency?
Living as your favorite self, however, requires clarity. Clarity that you might not have invested the time and energy into developing.
How do you find that clarity?
Steps Toward Finding Clarity to Live Life as Your Favorite Self
Let’s talk about steps we can take toward living life as our favorite selves.
- Start your day with a moment of reflection. Ask yourself, “What is my intention for today?” Whether it’s to be more present, to push through a tough workout, or to connect deeply with someone, having a purpose will guide your actions and decisions.
- Identify your strengths and passions. What activities make you lose track of time? What do people often compliment you on? Lean into these areas – they’re clues to your unique capabilities and potential.
- Adopt a growth mindset. When faced with a challenge, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success and keep pushing forward with resilience and determination.
- Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it’s through regular exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, find what nourishes your soul and make it a priority.
- Seek out and build a supportive community. Surround yourself with positive influences – friends, family, mentors, and even online communities – that encourage you to be your best self.
- Don’t be afraid to take bold risks. Whether it’s switching careers, starting a new hobby, or challenging yourself physically and mentally, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to incredible growth and opportunities.
- Be true to yourself. Embrace your quirks, follow your passions, and don’t conform to others’ expectations. Living authentically means aligning your actions with your values and beliefs.
Being my favorite self is about more than just reaching milestones (a trap set by the idea of living life as your best self!) – it’s about embracing the process of aligning your daily decisions with your true passions and values, celebrating your strengths, and living with intention.
Living life as your favorite self means striving for internal satisfaction rather than external validation and perfection. This approach not only enhances your well-being, but also allows you to connect more deeply with others and the world around you.
