Do humans really have the freedom to choose something for their future

  Hi, today I would like to share about the interesting topic, namely "Do humans really have the freedom to choose something for their future?, This line of thinking touches on the core of human existence: between fate, free will, and maturing suffering. In psychology, the concept of freedom is not merely 'doing whatever one wants,' but rather the ability to respond to stimuli consciously.

Below is an analysis of psychological perspectives on the freedom to choose and the importance of pushing past boundaries:

 

1. When Do Humans Have the Freedom to Choose?

In psychology, free will is often viewed as a spectrum that develops alongside cognitive and emotional maturity.

 

- The Gap Between Stimulus and Response: Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, stated that between stimulus (what happens to us) and response (what we do) there exists a space. Our freedom lies within that space.

- Cognitive Development: Biologically, mature decision-making ability emerges when the prefrontal cortex (the brain’s region for logic and self-control) is fully developed, typically in early adulthood (around the early 20s). Before this, our choices are often dominated by impulses or environmental influences.

- Individuation: According to Carl Jung, true freedom emerges when a person goes through the process of individuation—meaning when they begin to recognize their dark side (the shadow) and shed their social mask (the persona) to become their authentic self.

 

2. Why Must We Push Past Boundaries?

Boundaries often feel restrictive, but in psychology, they are the "fuel" for growth. Without obstacles, there is no evolution.

 

The Concept of "Post-Traumatic Growth" (PTG)

Humans often reach new levels of consciousness precisely after being struck by painful limitations or great crises. Psychology refers to this as PTG. Boundaries force us to dismantle outdated old structures and build a more resilient self.

 

Boundaries as the "Zone of Proximal Development" (ZPD)

 

Lev Vygotsky explained that growth occurs when we operate just outside our comfort zone—on the edge of our current capabilities. If we remain within boundaries without ever attempting to cross them, our cognitive and mental abilities will atrophy (deteriorate).

 

3. Psychological Schools of Thought on Freedom

Psychological School Perspective on Freedom 

Existentialism Humans are "condemned to be free." We bear full responsibility for the meaning of our own lives through our choices. 

Humanistic Humans have an innate drive toward self-actualization. Freedom is a tool to achieve one’s highest potential. 

Behaviorism Tends to be skeptical. Human choices are often seen as the result of environmental conditioning and a history of reinforcement (rewards/punishments). 

Psychoanalysis Freedom is often hindered by unconscious conflicts. Therapy aims to free patients from the "prison" of the past so they can choose consciously. 

Psychological School Perspective on Freedom

Existentialism Humans are "condemned to be free." We bear full responsibility for the meaning of our own lives through our choices.

Humanistic Humans have an innate drive toward self-actualization. Freedom is a tool to achieve one’s highest potential.

Behaviorism Tends to be skeptical. Human choices are often seen as the result of environmental conditioning and a history of reinforcement (rewards/punishments).

Psychoanalysis Freedom is often hindered by unconscious conflicts. Therapy aims to free patients from the "prison" of the past so they can choose consciously.

 

Conclusion: Boundaries Are a Compass

Humans should not only be allowed to push past boundaries—they must. In psychology, pushing past boundaries—whether mental (fear), social (others’ expectations), or physical—is a process called transcendence.

Without boundaries, freedom becomes empty. The most meaningful freedom is the freedom to choose how we respond to boundaries we cannot change.

"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." — Viktor Frankl

 

What does success look like beyond money

Hi, today I would like to share about the interesting topic, namely "what does success look like beyond money", the main reason why I choose that topic because many people pursue money with all their ability without considering other meaningful purpose, The question "What does success look like beyond money?" essentially invites us to redefine the meaning of "success" beyond the numbers in a bank balance. The statement asks: "If money were no longer the benchmark, what would prove that your life is successful?"

 

From a psychological perspective, this shift in perspective is very healthy because pursuing material wealth excessively often leads to the "hedonic treadmill"—a condition where we keep achieving new targets but our level of happiness remains the same.

 

Psychological Perspective: More Meaningful Success

 

Modern psychology offers several frameworks for viewing success from a non-financial standpoint:

 

1. Self-Determination Theory

According to Ryan & Deci, humans will feel deeply successful and satisfied if they fulfill three basic needs:

 

- Autonomy: Feeling in control of one’s own life choices.

- Competence: Feeling skilled or proficient at doing challenging things.

- Relatedness: Having quality relationships and feeling loved by others.

 

2. Eudaimonic Well-being

Psychology distinguishes between Hedonic (seeking immediate pleasure) and Eudaimonic (seeking meaning) well-being. Success beyond money is often seen as:

 

- Personal Growth: Continuously learning and becoming a better version of oneself.

- Life Purpose: Feeling that what you do contributes to others or the world.

 

3. The Concept of "Flow"

Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi argues that success occurs when a person frequently experiences Flow—a state where you are so immersed in an activity you love that you lose track of time.

 

Non-Material Success Indicators (Psychological Checklist)

 

Here are some aspects considered "success" from the lens of positive psychology:

 

Dimension Definition of Success Beyond Money 

Mental Health -> The ability to stay calm under pressure and maintain stable self-esteem. 

Time Affluence -> Having the freedom to dedicate time to hobbies, rest, and family without guilt. 

Resilience ->  The ability to bounce back after experiencing failure or trauma. 

Physical Health -> A fit body and sufficient energy to face each day with enthusiasm. 

Integrity Living in alignment with the moral values you believe in, even when no one is watching. 

 

"True success is not about what you accumulate, but about who you become (character) and how you impact others."

 

In essence, the question invites us to move from "success by standard" (what others/society say) to "success by design" (what makes your soul feel complete)."

Hopefully this article can give you an insight and a help to improve your life, good luck.

What causes other people to feel uncomfortable when they get closer with someone who is not doing anything

Hi, good day, today I would like to share about the interesting topik, namely "What causes other people to feel uncomfortable when they get closer with someone who is not doing anything? It must feel exhausting and isolating when you believe you’ve done everything right, yet your surroundings react the opposite way. This sense of "doing nothing wrong" often clashes with unwritten social dynamics.

 

In psychology, there are several perspectives to analyze this phenomenon—not to blame you, but to provide new insights.

 

1. Differences Between Self-Perception and Social Perception

 

Humans often have "blind spots" in their behavior. Psychology recognizes the Johari Window concept, which includes a "Blind Area"—aspects of ourselves that others know but we are unaware of.

 

- Non-verbal cues: Sometimes it’s not what you say, but how you say it. A flat facial expression, monotonous tone of voice, or overly intense/lack of eye contact can subconsciously make people feel threatened.

- Projected energy: If you feel anxious or insecure internally, others can often "pick up" on that tension and respond by also feeling uncomfortable (the emotional contagion effect).

 

2. Unintentional Violations of Social Boundaries

 

Even without making serious mistakes, small behaviors can trigger discomfort:

 

- Personal Space: Do you stand too close to others?

- Intensity: Are you overly intense when speaking, or too withdrawn to the point where people feel they have to "walk on eggshells" around you?

- Contextual Appropriateness: Sometimes being "too correct" or rigid in casual situations can make people feel indirectly judged.

 

3. The Phenomenon of Projection

 

There’s a possibility that the issue lies not with you, but with them.

 

- Mirror to Themselves: Sometimes someone’s presence reminds others of their own shortcomings. If you are highly disciplined or honest, those who are less so might feel uncomfortable because your presence serves as a "reminder" of their perceived failures.

- Stereotypes or Prejudices: Humans tend to categorize people based on first impressions, which are often unfair.

 

4. Social Anxiety and Cognitive Bias

 

If you have a tendency toward social anxiety, you may experience the Spotlight Effect. This is a cognitive bias where we feel others are closely watching and judging us, when in reality they are likely preoccupied with their own thoughts. You might interpret others’ tired or confused expressions as a sign of being "uncomfortable" with you.

 

What Can Be Done?

 

Step Explanation 

Ask for Feedback Talk to someone you trust most: "I feel like people often seem uncomfortable around me—are there aspects of my demeanor I need to work on?" 

Self-Observation Pay attention to your body language. Do you often cross your arms? Do you smile when greeting others? 

Focus on Others Shift your focus from "How are they seeing me?" to "How can I help them feel at ease?" 

 

It’s important to remember that you are not responsible for everyone else’s emotions. However, understanding these dynamics can help you navigate social interactions more smoothly.

Hopefully this article can give you an insight and also can improve your life, good luck.