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My definition of self-autonomy has changed a thousand times over depending on my mood, my ego, who I spent time with, and what my goals were at any given time. We can probably all relate to these factors at some point or another.

On the surface, self-regulation and authenticity appear to be disparate character strengths whose associations are discordant. In fact, it would seem that having to self-regulate may entail having to compromise one’s authenticity or vice versa. Still, purposeful self-regulation is often necessary, especially where one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being are at stake.

You may have seen this but in one of his interviews, Bruce Lee drew on the difference between rivers and swamps as an analogy to describe two different kinds of people. There are those who resemble a flowing river that leads to the sea and those who simply remain stagnant throughout their lifetime.

Remember the last time you felt shame for whatever the reason? You might have said or done something that you so terribly regretted or that resulted in altercations that put a big dent in your relationship, self-confidence and/or self-esteem.

Have you ever wondered what being truly happy is? Try defining happiness to yourself. You will probably come up with ideas such as positive emotions, elation, fun and laughter, peace etc. Aristotle’s version of happiness is “living an exemplary life”, “being true to oneself”. and “a good and fulfilling way of life”.

To put it into context, the reason why I didn’t like studying was because in those days, no one told you how to. As long as you were able to regurgitate the information you were give, you were doing okay. I remember how little I read and how much memorising I had to do. This is going back to when there were generally and most commonly two places to do all your studies, the library or at home.