5 Signs That Indicate You Are an Independent Person

Everyone wants to be independent. It is an appealing choice of lifestyle despite the difficulties life may present. Unfortunately, people depend on others for a variety of reasons. Whether it is financially or for validation, it can sometimes make a person feel trapped and not be able to live their life as they want.

In general, an independent person can be defined as someone who doesn’t rely on others for money, support, care, or emotional reassurance. It is an individual that is free from the influence or control of another as they have sound self-esteem and a healthy sense of themselves.

If you want to know whether you are an independent person, read below to learn about the five signs that are a true representation of such an individual.

You stay true to yourself

Although most people grow up following the practices and beliefs of their families, they also develop their own values and principles as they get older. They refuse to allow anything to compromise their values even if they are unpopular, and are doing their best to stay true to themselves. This is a true indication that you are an independent person who knows who you are and what you believe in.

For instance, any time you want to broaden your horizons, you can turn to the inspirational writings from saints such as St Jerome, to expand your knowledge while still sticking to your principles and maintaining a realistic view of life.

You can count on yourself

While it is great to have a support system by your side that features your family and friends, it is best to rely on yourself at all times. This is a true sign of an independent person who doesn’t need to turn for help, or ask someone else to solve their problems and do things for them. In fact, if an independent individual asks for help it is often considered a weakness and a sign of incompetence.

Counting on yourself means you are aware of your strength and abilities, as well as the fact that you must work hard to achieve your goals because nobody else will do it for you.

You are not afraid of being alone

Many people fear the thought of living alone or spending their time by themselves. That’s why they often want to be part of a group and spend all their time socializing to avoid experiencing feelings of solitude.

One of the main reasons for that is because they are constantly looking for validation from others and want to feel accepted, which they believe boosts their self-esteem.

However, independent people are individuals who enjoy solitude and the peace it brings. This is because it helps them stay connected with their inner self and learn how to face their fears and problems on their own. 

You keep your circle small

Another sign that indicates you are an independent person is that you keep your circle small. This doesn’t necessarily mean you are introverted but simply picky about who you connect with.

As you get older, you realize that not many people are worth your time and even fewer can be trusted. Instead, you surround yourself with individuals who share your values, beliefs, and principles and are loyal and trustworthy like yourself. You don’t need to overload your life with social connections just to feel accepted and liked because your self-esteem doesn’t depend on someone else’s approval.

Saying no isn’t hard

Many people are unable to face even the slightest conflict because they are afraid of hurting someone close to them like a family member or a friend. Instead, they say yes to many things and try to be kind to everyone, even if that opposes their beliefs. 

However, independent person stays true to themselves and is able to establish boundaries and say no when necessary. This individual will never accept fake friends or needy relatives because they have to, but simply because they don’t want to. In fact, an independent person will easily say no to anyone without giving an explanation. 

Final thoughts

It is no secret that everyone wishes to be independent. This notion comes with plenty of benefits including increased self-confidence and self-esteem, improved decision-making, inner peace, and self-gratitude.

So, if you want to know if you possess these traits, be sure to refer to our post and learn about the main signs that are a true representation of an independent individual.