Freedom Over Independence

The Essence of a Fulfilling Life

Britta Ollrogge, MBA
3 min readJan 26, 2024
Photo by Fuu J on Unsplash

Freedom and independence are often synonymous, but a subtle yet crucial difference emerges upon closer examination. Modern society frequently extols the virtues of independence, yet in my personal conviction, the significance of freedom takes precedence. Let’s delve in and explore why I prioritize freedom over independence.

A Dance of Words: Freedom and Independence

Independence may seem like a noble aspiration — a pursuit of self-sufficiency and self-responsibility. However, true freedom is more than the ability to exist without external assistance. It encompasses the power to live autonomously, make decisions, and be authentic without being constrained by societal norms.

The Burden of Independence

Independence can sometimes prove cumbersome. Handling everything alone can be overwhelming and lead to isolation from valuable relationships and communities.

I often encounter individuals aspiring to lead an autonomous life: a house with its own forest, using wood for heating, power from a personal photovoltaic system, a private well, chickens, and vegetable cultivation. While initially desirable and indicative of independence, this lifestyle severely restricts freedom. One may…

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Britta Ollrogge, MBA

I write on Self Improvement 🌱, Productivity 🎯, and Agile Product Development 🏄. My goal is to inspire.💡https://www.britta-ollrogge-consulting.com