Break Free from the Invisible Strings: Don't Let People, Money, or Past Experiences Control Your Life

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Hello hivians, I welcome 🤗 you to my blog yet again @zusi78 .Have you ever felt like a puppet on strings, being pulled in directions you didn't choose? I came across this powerful illustration that perfectly captures that feeling. It shows a giant hand holding strings attached to a limp marionette figure, with the bold text overlay: "Don't let yourself be controlled by three things: people, money, or past experiences." The artwork is in soft purple tones, giving it a thoughtful, almost haunting vibe,reminding us how easy it is to lose control without even realizing it.This image hit home for me and I wanted to break it down for you all. In simple terms,let's dive into these three "controllers" and why we need to cut those strings. I'll share real-life examples to make it relatable and wrap up with some practical suggestions to reclaim your freedom.

Don't Let People Control You

We're social beings,so it's natural to care about what others think.But when their opinions,judgments,or expectations start dictating your choices, you've handed over the reins.Think about it,how many times have you said "yes" to something just to please a friend, family member, or boss, even if it didn't feel right for you?
For example,imagine you're passionate about starting a small business selling handmade crafts in your local market.But your friends laugh it off, saying it's "not a real job" and you should stick to your 9-to-5 for stability.If you let that control you, you might abandon your dream and end up feeling stuck and resentful. I've seen this in my own circle,folks in my area chasing corporate jobs because that's what everyone does, only to burn out. The key is remembering;people's views are often based on their own fears or experiences,not yours.Your life isn't a group project,you get the final say.

Don't Let Money Control You

Ah!!! This one's sneaky! In a world where bills pile up and social media flaunts luxury lifestyles,it's easy to let cash (or the lack of it) rule your mood, decisions, and even self-worth.Money is a tool,not a master,but when it becomes an obsession,it can trap you in a cycle of stress and poor choices.

Take this scenario;You're working overtime every week,skipping family time or hobbies,just to afford that fancy car or gadget you think will make you happy.But deep down, you're exhausted and unfulfilled.Or on the flip side, if money's tight, you might avoid opportunities like investing in education because you're too scared of debt.A friend of mine once chased high-paying gigs in the oil sector here in Delta State,ignoring his health until he hit a breaking point with stress-related issues.Money should serve your goals, not steal your peace.Without balance,it turns into chains that hold you back from true joy.

Don't Let Past Experiences Control You

Finally,past experiences. Our history shapes us,but it shouldn't shackle us.Holding onto old hurts,failures, or regrets can make you hesitant to try new things, turning what if into I can't. It's like carrying a heavy backpack everywhere,it slows you down and tires you out.
Here's an example;Suppose you had a bad breakup where trust was broken.If you let that past control you, you might avoid all relationships, thinking everyone's the same.Or in business,if a venture failed before (maybe a side hustle that didn't take off), you could swear off entrepreneurship forever. I know someone who lost money in a scam years ago and now fears any investment, missing out on legit opportunities like crypto or stocks.The past is a teacher, not a jailer. Learn the lesson, then let it go otherwise, you're reliving the pain instead of building a brighter future.

The above illustration isn't just art,it's a wake-up call.These three things,people, money, and past experiences,can pull our strings if we let them, but the good news is we hold the scissors.

Suggestions to Cut the Strings and Take Back Control
Ready to break free? Here are some straightforward tips to start today:

Build Self-Awareness: Spend few minutes daily journaling.Ask yourself, Am I making this choice for me, or because of others/money/old baggage? Awareness is the first step to change.
Set Boundaries with People.Practice saying "no" kindly.Surround yourself with supportive folks who lift you up,not pull you down.On platforms like Ecency,PeakD, Freewriters and others ,connect with them for positive encouragement.

Master Your Money Mindset: Create a simple budget that includes fun and growth,not just bills. Read books like "Rich Dad,Poor Dad" for perspective,focus on financial freedom,not endless chasing.Start small,like saving for a passion project.

Heal from the Past:Try forgiveness exercises or talk to a trusted friend/mentor.Turn lessons into action.If a failure taught you resilience,use it to fuel your next try.Mindfulness apps like Headspace can help you stay present.
Focus on What You Can Control.Daily affirmations work wonders.Set small goals,celebrate wins and remember,life's too short to be a puppet.

What do you think,fam? Have these three things ever controlled you? Share your stories in the comments,I'd love to hear how you've broken free. Let's inspire each other to live untethered! Thanks for reading. Yours truly @zusi78 signing off 🚀