7 signs of a truly carefree person, according to psychology

Most people complicate their lives by chasing things that don’t bring them the joy they want. I know this because I have fallen prey to the bullshit that society forces upon us. People are incredibly easily influenced by what others say is important because we value the words of those we consider to be of high status. But I’ve learned that the most genuinely carefree people who seem to have it all together aren’t necessarily fulfilled; instead, they show other rare signs.

Here are seven signs of a truly carefree person:

1. They make commitments that no one else will

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Life is a game, and you won when you were born. Everything else is a game, so act like it. While the sloppy masses wander the earth just trying to get through another day, here you are doing insane duties that will shake your soul. Go big. Stop whining. Aim high and fall in line with the energy this dare gives you.

Research published by Central European University suggests that making commitments that others won’t, often referred to as “going the extra mile” or “taking a bold stance,” can lead to positive outcomes such as increased personal growth, leadership perception, and a stronger sense of purpose. However, it is crucial to take into account the possible disadvantages of isolation and possible counter-reactions, depending on the context and the agreements made. Studies often focus on the psychological factors that influence such decisions, including personal values, self-efficacy, and the desire for impact.

2. They appreciate the simple things

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It’s easy to believe that what seems difficult to achieve is of greater value than the things we ignore on the way up. But when we reach the top, we realize that’s all we wanted joy in the simple things. Why start later when you can enjoy the simple life now?

A 2012 study found that appreciating the small pleasures in life can contribute more to lasting happiness than other factors. To enjoy the simple things in life, focus on what is enjoyable, nurturing, and supportive in your life and away from what is annoying, frustrating, or hurtful. You can also practice gratitude for everyday things that are easy to take for granted.

3. They get paid to do what they love

smiling young woman with an open laptop Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels

Studying to be a doctor because your parents want you to is a terrible life strategy. It’s much better to get paid for what you enjoy most. It is an illusion that this is a failing strategy.

The Internet has allowed us to monetize almost anything. You can get paid to write. You can get paid to make films about insects. It’s about the mindset you need, not about finding the ‘right job’.

Brooke Erin Duffy’s book Not getting paid to do what you love: gender, social media and ambitious work asks readers to consider the stakes of not getting paid to do what they love, and how to match the ambitions of creative workers with their willingness to work for fame.

4. They break certain rules

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Success is difficult when everyone is playing on the same field. And yet ‘rules’ are followed because people are afraid of appearing like outsiders.

Follow your instincts, be a freak and do things your way (without breaking the law, you fool). This starts with understanding the rules and the status quo. Now you have a signal that shows you the way: the other way.

An MIT Sloan Management Study found that non-conformity is a hallmark of creative performance and can lead to benefits such as being noticed, being authentic and thinking innovatively.

5. They see problems as opportunities

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This mentality will probably change your life more than anything. Most people spend their entire lives walking on eggshellsworried and scared.

They are hampered and wonder why they haven’t found happiness yet. The living among us have made peace with making mistakes. Because of this we are not so afraid. And if we are not so afraid, everything becomes an open door.

Research published by the Journal of Positive Psychology on the perception of problems focuses on the way individuals interpret and appraise situations as problematic, influenced by factors such as personal experiences, cognitive biases, social context and emotional state, leading to variations in the way people perceive severity and possible solutions for the challenges they face. Key findings include that people tend to overestimate the severity of problems based on their past experiences, that social comparisons can influence the way a person views a problem, and that it is a positive whether portraying a problem in a negative light can significantly change perception.

6. They fall in love with things that bore others

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Do you want a secret? Find a way to enjoy the things that matter, but that most people turn their noses at. I didn’t get a big audience by constantly looking for novelty. I did what mattered again and again.

But I found a way to love sitting at my desk and diving into new, written worlds. Find the things that many avoid and become intimate with them. Let those things fall in love with your presence.

7. They make room for the small voice

woman with her eyes closed and meditating Photo by: Kaboompics.com | Pexels

Most of us obey our critical voices as if they were just barging in with a shovel in hand. We have so much to protect, so we listen to the voice that seemingly has all the answers to save us.

But this voice is a false prophet. It only knows how to protect the part of you that was never real in the first place. You are more than that. You are free, creative and wild. The calm voice has your back if you are willing to listen.

Research referenced in an article from The Brain and Behavior Research Foundation shows that taking time to relax can significantly improve effectiveness by reducing stress, increasing focus, boosting creativity and improving overall mental well-being, leading to better performance at work and personal to live. Research shows that regular relaxation breaks can lead to higher productivity and better decision-making when resuming tasks.

Alex Mathers is a writer and coach who helps you build a profitable personal brand with your knowledge and skills while staying mentally resilient.