How do I separate societal expectations from my own expectations?

[Androm]

I am aware of my expectations, but it is confusing which ones are mine and which are the demands that arise as a result of the responsibilities that society imposes on me. Is there a way to distinguish what I really want?

[Alchemizt]

I often go through similar problems and what I do is I write it all on a paper/journal. You can first list out everything you want in life. But when you write them you have to ask yourself different questions, for example "If I was free of my responsibilities and there was no pressure from anyone, then what do I really want from life?" or "If there was no one to judge me, what would I really wanna do?". You have to go on asking such questions and you might end up crossing off certain things, adding new ideas, and simplifying things. Using a journal has helped me a lot in such cases, hope it helps you too.

[Androm]

thank you this comment helped me a lot

[Snakeyes7]

I would imagine a good way to do it is if you suddenly find yourself isolated from the rest of the world, the personal expectations will remain and the societal ones will vanish, as there won't be anyone to expect anything.

[AmeerX]

You can find out what you want when you start to distinguish between your principles and those of the society.

It's very hard to shake it off though. And for your age it is really hard because you are not just influenced by society but your parents and relatives.

Most people turn to dark side when they try too hard though. You know rebellious and go for taboo things to create a purely opposite expectation then the society which can create dissonance in life though. So be very careful about what you want in life.

[Androm]

Thank you🍀

[Paulychicagoluv]

Write yours down on a piece of paper, and post it somewhere you can see everyday. Then set your goals on them. Completely separate those from what you see online. Try to keep your mindset on those your created. Not what you see online.

[Berethor]

Does it matter? it's nature versus nurture trope? all the things that you doing are popular?