Hey friends,

I’ve been meaning to write about shame for a while. It’s a timeless topic that plagues many people, and its relevance only seems to be increasing over time.

Well, I recently decided to sit down and articulate my thoughts about it. A thousand words and a few drawings later, I now have the piece I’d give to anyone struggling with it.

When you’re ready, let’s dive right in:

​The End of Shame​

A Thought I’ve Been Pondering

People often use shame as a tool to empower others, but writing today’s post made me realize just how ineffective this is.

When someone is shamed into improving themselves, every subsequent step forward originates from a place of lack. For example, someone that is shamed into changing their career will be driven by the desire to fill a void that was installed by another. So even if they do reach the heights of success, the journey there will be filled with insecurity because they will always gauge their progress according to the perceptions of others.

The only true source of empowerment is that which you give yourself. It needs to stem from a place of self-love, as that’s the only way to find meaning and fulfillment in the uphill climb ahead. Otherwise, if shame is the motivating force, then what you’ll cultivate throughout the journey is anger and resentment toward the people that compelled you to act.

A Brief Parting Question

What’s an endeavor you’ve pursued because it stems from your true curiosities and interests?

I’ve found that so much of what we do is directed by what society expects of us. But within every person is an inner child that seeks to pursue something on its own accord, irrespective of the social rewards it may accrue.

For me, I’ve been writing and drawing ever since I was young, and More To That is an extension of that.

What would it be for you?

As always, hit reply to share any thoughts, to respond to the parting question, or to simply say hello. I love hearing from you.

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share this email with anyone who might enjoy it. Have a great rest of your week!

-Lawrence Yeo

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