Independence Day signifies the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the recognition of the United States as an independent nation. While we can all appreciate the significance of this, few of us recognize how critical independence is to realizing our potential to live rewarding lives.

Independence implies the freedom to make our own choices, live according to our own values, and do so without relying upon others. Each fourth of July, we celebrate the independence of America and the freedom that it provides us as individuals. It’s an excellent time to also appreciate the opportunities that this freedom creates and to reflect on how sincere our efforts are to gain value from it. Without striving to discover and reach our potential, the independence and freedom that we’re blessed to have are nothing more than a wasted opportunity.

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