Understanding Life’s Unique Paths

Growing up in Nigeria came with many proverbs, analogies, adages and stories and one that stands out says, “All lizards crawl on their bellies, and we don’t know which one has an upset stomach.”

This simple yet profound saying captures a universal truth: appearances can be deceiving, and the struggles others face are often hidden in plain sight. It reminds us that just as every lizard has its own journey, so too does every person. No two lives are the same, and what works for one person may not work for another.

This idea is beautifully echoed in Carl Jung’s words: “The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases.” In a world that often pressures us to conform, Jung’s insight serves as a powerful reminder that life is not one-size-fits-all.

Each of us is walking a unique path, shaped by our experiences, values, and dreams. Understanding and embracing this can lead to greater empathy, self-awareness, and a more fulfilling life.

Today, there’s a strong push toward finding “the answer” or “the way” by looking at others as though other humans have the answer. We are bombarded with advice on how to be successful, happy, or healthy. While some guidance can be helpful, it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not necessarily work for another.

Consider the world of work. One person may thrive in a structured 9-to-5 job, finding satisfaction in stability and routine. Another may feel stifled by the same environment, yearning for the freedom to pursue creative projects on their own terms. Both paths are valid, yet they are sometimes seen through the lens of societal expectations, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt for those who don’t fit the mould.

This is also true in relationships. There is no perfect blueprint for how relationships should unfold. Some find contentment in long-term partnerships, while others may discover that singleness better aligns with their personal growth or the path they find themselves on.

As Oscar Wilde said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Embracing our individuality means recognising that our life journeys and choices are as unique as we are.

One of the most common traps we fall into is comparing our journey to that of others. We look at the success, happiness, or lifestyle of another person and wonder why not us.

However, as the Nigerian proverb suggests, we don’t truly know what others are going through. What appears to be a perfect life on the outside may be hiding deep struggles, and what looks like failure may be the first step toward a breakthrough.

Social media worsens this issue, offering a curated glimpse into the lives of others, often leading us to believe that there is a standard we should be living up to. But, just as Carl Jung reminds us, the shoe that fits one may pinch another. Your journey is yours alone, and it’s crucial to find the path that fits you, even if it looks different from everyone else’s.

Living authentically requires us to embrace our differences and make peace with the fact that our path may not always align with societal expectations. As Dr. Seuss famously wrote, “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is ‘Youer’ than You.” This means acknowledging that there is no single way to live a meaningful life; instead, there are as many ways as there are people.

This perspective encourages us to celebrate diversity in all its forms—cultural, personal or spiritual — and to recognise that every person’s journey is valuable. It also calls for compassion, toward ourselves and others. When we understand that everyone is navigating their own challenges and triumphs, we can approach life with greater kindness and patience.

As you reflect on your own life, consider this: Are you trying to fit into a shoe that pinches? Are you measuring your worth by someone else’s standards? Take a moment to step back and evaluate whether the path you’re on truly aligns with your values, desires, and strengths.

Embrace your individuality and honour the unique journey you are on. Stop comparing your life to others and trust that your path, with all its twists and turns, is valid.

Let go of the need to conform to a “recipe” for living that doesn’t suit you, and instead, craft a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Remember, the world doesn’t need another version of someone else—it needs you, and that means seeing yourself and your uniqueness through the eyes of your Creator.

Thanks for reading and sharing my post with others. Have an awesome week.