What does being ‘free’ mean to you? To me, it’s many things that are central to who I am, and how I approach, and am affected by the world around me. When I think about freedom, there are so many ways in which it might be manifested within my world.
Defining Personal Freedom
Freedom would mean that I could think my own thoughts and not be penalised for them. Freedom would mean that I actually get a chance to experience nature, and not be confined to some cubicle, some desk, and somebody else’s rules. Freedom would mean that it was legitimate for me to have the thoughts that I think and not for someone else to tell me what thoughts I can have. Freedom would be laughing out loud. Freedom would be dancing, writing, listening, and breathing, without anyone accusing me of Living whilst Black.
The Importance of Intellectual Freedom
One of the major parts of freedom in the wider sense is intellectual freedom. This is a specific kind of freedom. This is a freedom to write, speak, present, appear, and have agency with my own perspective, my own analysis, my own interpretation of that which I see, and that which I present. Therefore, it really is about me having the freedom to present through my own lens. That’s intellectual freedom and freedom in general for me.
Barriers to Freedom
Do I feel free, or are the restraints and restrictions confining my intellectual and physical freedom? It’s a question that resonates deeply. Many Black individuals face systemic barriers that limit both personal and intellectual freedom. As a personal life coach, I have witnessed this firsthand with my clientele and colleagues. According to a 2021 report by the UK Equality and Human Rights Commission, Black employees are significantly underrepresented in senior positions across various sectors, limiting their voices and perspectives in critical decision-making processes (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2021).
Striving for Change
What would I like to see change in the world around me? I envision a world where freedom is not a privilege but a right for everyone, regardless of race or background. A world where my thoughts and expressions are valued and respected, where intellectual freedom is not hindered by systemic oppression.
Embracing personal and intellectual freedom requires a collective effort to dismantle these barriers. Working with a personal life coach who understands the Cultural nuances can be a vital step towards achieving this freedom. Individuals can access personal life coaching to gain insight into personal and intellectual freedom in work and life.
SisDr
Life and Leadership Coach Specialising in Cultural Sensitivity
Personal Life Coach | Afrikan-Centred Author | Speaker | Activist
For further information and support on the journey to personal and intellectual freedom, connect with me here.