Go beyond the rules and take your time

Ikmal Trianto
3 min readJan 30, 2025

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Ilustrasi: Freepik

This article may just be a simple reminder to myself, but perhaps it can also offer hope to anyone who reads it. For me, both this and the previous articles serve as memories that we have thought, tried, and found meaning in every step of our journey.

If you’re feeling like you’re not in a good place right now, I hope things soon turn into something you need to get through this time, and may many good things await you. If you’re currently in a moment of joy, don’t forget to be grateful for the blessings you have-many people would love to be in your position. I just wanna say, whatever you are, you’re now is the best version of your past.

The ultimate goal everyone seeks in life is happiness-unconditional and regardless of circumstances. It is the one thing we all strive to attain in our own ways. But what kind of happiness can we truly find? In reality, happiness isn’t just about material wealth. When you take time for yourself, that is a form of true happiness.

We often work tirelessly, chasing happiness by pleasing others, hoping to gain recognition. And perhaps our idea of happiness is shaped by current trends-what’s popular on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and others. In the end, we may find ourselves merely chasing socially accepted standards that happen to be trending.

The choice to be happy depends on our perspective-whether we pursue something truly beneficial for us or not. Here, “beneficial” is not just about material gain but also about the moral and personal fulfillment that will serve us in the long run. So, if you step outside the lines of normality and choose an unconventional path to find your happiness, that’s not wrong-it’s a difficult yet worthwhile choice for yourself. Taking time off, going on a solo journey, escaping the noise of daily routines, or simply reading and losing yourself in words. Enjoying your favorite meal, savoring every bite. Do whatever you feel is necessary, without worrying about others-or even your boss.

Happiness is essential for a fulfilling life. If we only focus on making others happy, we must also consider our own path to joy. Of course, it’s a different matter if our happiness comes from bringing joy to others-that’s another topic, and I won’t be discussing it here. The kind of happiness I want to emphasize is about providing the best nourishment for the chemical particles trapped within your body, allowing them to function optimally — restoring energy, sharpening your mind, and ultimately bringing out the best version of yourself.

Take at least 30 minutes each day to reflect, to give yourself the freedom to contemplate without distractions. Ignore the obstacles that have been weighing you down — just let them be. After all, they are merely small pebbles on your path; they won’t make you fall, only remind you of a slight discomfort. However, it all depends on your perspective — if you choose to hold onto that pain instead of letting it go, over time, it may grow into something much more damaging to your well-being.

Don’t settle for being just ordinary. Break the rules and take your own time.

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