Chapter 1: The New Year’s Illusion

As the year draws to a close, individuals globally flock to online platforms to share their personal resolutions. Anticipating the trends for 2024, it's evident that many aim to "become the best version of ourselves."

It's worth noting that I’ve never been particularly fond of this season. If I find Christmas unappealing for several reasons, I can confidently say that I loathe New Year’s Eve for the way we celebrate it. The occasion feels like a random date on the calendar from which we launch a barrage of personal challenges, hoping that societal pressures will serve as our motivators for the next year. To top it off, we often indulge in excessive drinking, leaving us barely able to walk or even string together coherent sentences, sometimes resulting in regrettable late-night texts to our exes. This chaotic scenario is the reality for many.

The next day, self-proclaimed hypocrites embark on the so-called "Dry January," while those grappling with guilt push themselves into the most grueling workouts as the remnants of last night’s revelry still linger. Meanwhile, the imaginative among us start brainstorming the next big idea, and entrepreneurs outline their innovative startups set to launch by year’s end. Those feeling particularly isolated may find themselves yearning for deeper connections, spiraling into introspection as they observe what seems to come so easily to others: close friendships, loving families, and a constant stream of joy.

Our social media feeds become filled with snapshots of our former selves—images of parties, drinks, and celebrations, all juxtaposed against our ambitious New Year’s aspirations: more success, greater health, increased passion, and a commitment to travel and activism. We quantify our goals, setting numerical targets for income, books read, followers gained, and hours dedicated to various pursuits.

The objectives we set are often wildly unrealistic. We envision waking up at dawn, practicing yoga, meditating, journaling, exercising, and balancing a multitude of new habits, all while maintaining our work and personal lives. Self-help experts, who have built their brands on societal anxieties, will see a surge in sales of their eBooks and coaching services. Gyms will roll out enticing offers, all centered around the concept of a fresh start.

However, we often overlook a critical truth: many of us will inevitably fall short. Whether in all our endeavors or just a few, failure will lead to feelings of guilt, self-doubt, and shame. Thoughts like "I didn’t try hard enough" or "I’m not good enough" become all too familiar.

Those who appear to be winning at life often showcase their past achievements, which can distort our perception of reality. We tend to forget that what we see online is just a polished façade—a mere fraction of the whole picture. It’s not about genuine happiness or fulfillment, but rather a collection of curated successes that may not reflect true satisfaction.

The pressure to conform to this ideal can be overwhelming. Tragically, this can even lead some to contemplate suicide, especially around New Year’s when feelings of inadequacy peak.

Authenticity and vulnerability rarely go viral; instead, we’re bombarded with "how-to" content and success tips, rather than messages that acknowledge it’s okay to struggle. We find ourselves caught in a cycle of chasing superficial achievements to prove our worth to people we barely know.

I’m here to say that I don’t aspire to be the best version of myself because I already am. Each day, I evolve and grow through experiences, learning from failures, and cherishing moments of joy and love. There’s no need to become something or fit into a mold; we must simply strive to be genuine.

The challenge lies in discovering what brings us fulfillment and joy, as well as what does not. The path to understanding our desires and passions is not as straightforward as it seems, often hindered by various external factors.

So what’s the solution? I don’t possess a definitive answer, but I believe this season should be less about societal definitions of success. Instead, it’s an opportunity for introspection, adjustment, and experimentation—an ongoing process that extends beyond just one day or month.

We’re not alone in this struggle. I’m grappling with it, you are too, and perhaps together, we can navigate this complexity.

This year, I won’t be celebrating a tradition I don’t believe in. I have the incredible fortune of spending time with the person I cherish most.

I’ve discarded resolutions, self-help mantras, and the pressure to become a superior version of myself. I plan to embrace a slower and gentler pace for the remainder of the year.

I hope you can join me in this journey. Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with authenticity and sincerity!

Chapter 2: Embracing Authenticity

As we navigate through these societal expectations, we must prioritize our own truths.

The first video, "The Truth About the Best Version of Yourself," explores the dangers of striving for an idealized self-image and the importance of embracing who we truly are.

The second video, "Why You Lie to Yourself More Than Others," delves into the reasons behind our self-deception and the societal pressures that lead us to present inauthentic versions of ourselves.