Hello everyone!
Welcome back to another Free Spirit Friday. If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you’ll know I often describe myself as a free spirit. It’s a phrase I’ve always felt drawn to, a label that seems to fit how I move through life. But recently, I’ve been reflecting on what it truly means to be a free spirit. Is it a whimsical catchphrase, or does it hold more profound significance? Today, I want to unpack this idea, share my thoughts, and explore how it resonates with me—and perhaps with you, too.
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So, what does being a free spirit actually mean? At its core, I think it’s about living life on your own terms, unshackled by convention or expectation. It’s not about rejecting rules entirely—though I’ll admit I’ve never been one for blindly following the crowd—but rather about choosing which rules align with your values and letting the rest fall away. For me, it’s a way of being that prioritises authenticity, curiosity, and a deep connection to the world around me.
Growing up, I was always the one who questioned things. Why do we have to dress a certain way? Why is there only one “right” path through life? I’d watch people around me slot neatly into predefined roles—school, university, job, marriage, kids—and while I didn’t judge them for it, I knew it wasn’t entirely for me. Yes, I did graduate from university (and I’m proud of that!), but even that was a choice I made for myself, not because it was expected. I wanted to explore, to wander, to carve out a life that felt like mine. That, to me, is the essence of a free spirit: the courage to listen to your inner voice, even when it sings a different tune from everyone else’s.
But let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. Society loves a blueprint. There’s comfort in predictability, and stepping outside that can feel like swimming against the tide. I’ve had moments where I’ve wondered if I’m making things harder for myself. Should I just settle down, pick a lane, stop dreaming so big? Yet every time I try to fit into a box, it feels suffocating. A free spirit doesn’t thrive in confinement; they need room to breathe, to grow, to change their mind a hundred times if they want to.
One thing I’ve noticed is that being a free spirit isn’t about being reckless or aimless, as some might assume. It’s not about drifting through life without purpose. Quite the opposite, actually. For me, it’s about intention—choosing a path because it lights you up, not because it’s what’s expected. Take my blog, for instance. Cosette’s Beauty Pantry isn’t just a hobby; it’s a space where I can share my passions—beauty, creativity, and self-expression—with a community that gets it. I didn’t start it to follow a trend or chase a paycheque. I started it because it felt right, because it’s an extension of who I am. That’s freedom to me: building something that reflects your soul.
I think a free spirit is also deeply tied to curiosity. I’ll confess I don’t travel much—life’s kept me closer to home than I sometimes imagine—but that doesn’t mean my mind stays still. I’m endlessly fascinated by the world, its people, and its stories. I love diving into books, films, or even conversations that open my eyes to new perspectives. Whether it’s learning about a far-off culture or finding beauty in the everyday around me, I feel most alive when I’m exploring in my own way. It’s like my spirit stretches out, eager to connect. Have you ever felt that? That pull towards discovery, even without leaving your doorstep?
Of course, being a free spirit doesn’t mean you’re immune to doubt or struggle. I’ve had my share of both. There are days when I feel torn between my desire for freedom and the practicalities of life. Bills need paying, after all, and not every dream comes with a safety net. But I’ve learnt that freedom isn’t about having no responsibilities—it’s about choosing which ones matter to you. I’d rather wrestle with uncertainty than live a life that feels scripted.
Another aspect of this free-spiritedness is how it shapes my relationships. I’ve always valued connections that feel real and unforced. I’m drawn to people who live authentically, who aren’t afraid to be themselves, quirks and all. But I’ll admit, my need for independence can sometimes clash with others’ expectations. I’m not one for clinging or conforming, and that’s not always easy for everyone to understand. A free spirit cherishes their autonomy, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love deeply or commit fully—it’s just that the commitment has to feel like a choice, not a cage.
When it comes to beauty—because this is Cosette’s Beauty Pantry, after all—I think being a free spirit shines through in how I approach it. I’ve never been one for rigid routines or chasing every trend. My makeup bag is a mishmash of bold lipsticks, shimmering eyeshadows, and whatever else sparks joy. Some days, I’ll go full glam; others, I’ll skip it entirely and let my skin breathe. It’s not about looking a certain way for anyone else; it’s about feeling like me. That’s the free-spirit way: using beauty as a playground, not a rulebook.
I suppose what I’m getting at is that being a free spirit is less about what you do and more about how you think. It’s a mindset—a refusal to let the world define you, a willingness to embrace change, and a hunger for a life that feels true. It’s not always glamorous or carefree; it can be messy and uncertain. But it’s also liberating. Every time I choose myself—my dreams, my quirks, my path—I feel a little more alive.
So, where does that leave us? I’d love to hear your take on this. Do you see yourself as a free spirit? Maybe you’ve got a wild streak you don’t often talk about, or perhaps you crave more freedom but aren’t sure how to claim it. Being a free spirit doesn’t look the same for everyone—it’s as unique as we are. For me, it’s about chasing what sets my heart on fire and letting go of what doesn’t. What about you?
As I wrap up this post, I’ll leave you with a question to ponder—and I’d love for you to share your thoughts in the comments below. What does being a free spirit mean to you? How do you live it, or how do you wish you could? Let’s chat about it—I can’t wait to hear your stories.
Until next time, stay true to yourself,
