Here’s the bottom line, right here: Freedom Is Agency Under Constraint

Most people think of freedom as some kind of escape. “I wouldn’t have to ____.” It’s almost as if people give away their internal locus of control to some external entity or circumstance. “If things were different, I’d….” That’s not agency. 

Some people think in terms of “I could do anything I wanted.” And that’s closer to what I’m talking about. 

Agency, specifically personal agency, is your ability to be intentional in making choices and then taking action on those choices. In doing that, you shape your life instead of reacting to it.

Agency Under Constraint implies that you always have a choice, no matter what the circumstance. Aren’t we always under some constraint? It feels like it, especially if your thoughts are plagued by concerns about time, money, health, relationships, career path, etc.

Your circumstances are neutral. There’s no gravity to any of the data you receive until you give meaning to it. 

You’re free when you decide what meaning you give, and how you will respond in the world, no matter what the circumstance. 

HERE’S THE GREAT NEWS:
Constraint demands either compliance or a creative response. You become the author of your life when you realize that you get to choose how to be, and who to be, deliberately.

Most people take on an identity in a given circumstance.
Those who are free, choose who they’re going to be.

You
Get
To
Choose

Keep making your magic.

See you here next week!

= Wayne =