10 Merits and Demerits of Being Independent

Being independent, whether financially or in decision-making, is everybody’s dream. Successful people are admired, and their life examples are often quoted in motivational speeches. It makes you confident, wise, and self-sufficient. But being strong and independent doesn’t come easily. The first step is getting educated and getting a job. According to me, gaining financial independence would be the first step. There are merits as well as demerits to being independent.

The benefits of being independent include:

• You have more options in life. If you disagree with something, especially when it is against your values, whether it be your partner or a job, you can choose to disagree or walk away with confidence.

• You can follow your passion: You can embrace new opportunities without seeking anyone’s permission. This lets you follow your passion.

• Being a role model: Being independent allows you to be successful and voice your opinions. You will be an inspiration and role model for others.

• Financial independence: Financial independence allows you to pay bills and provide for your family. You can also buy expensive stuff and lead a luxury lifestyle.

• Lead a stress-free life: Being independent takes a lot of stress out of your life. The stress of impressing your partner or seeking validation from him or her is not there anymore.

The demerits of being independent include:

• Can’t ask for help. Being independent means that you do everything on your own. It also means that you are probably not going to ask anyone for help when you need it. Even if somebody extends a helping hand, you will rather refuse to take it.

• Don’t know how to deal with emotions. Emotions like crying or sadness are generally taken as a sign of weakness. You tend to put on a facade of strength and self-confidence, no matter what you are going through on the personal front.

• Gets exhausted. Being independent also means being in charge of your situation. This involves hard work, which can be daunting and exhausting at times.

• Distancing from family and friends. In pursuit of being independent, you may forget to be in touch with family and friends. By missing out on their D-days, and celebrations, you may upset them by not prioritizing them.

• Neglects Health: A very old and prominent saying, ‘Health is Wealth’, is so true to its core. You work so hard to gain financial independence and success, that you often tend to neglect your health completely. By taking care of your health, you can achieve more in life and stay happy at the same time.