I used to worry about being cool. Now I realize that I genuinely

Listen, O children of wisdom, for the words of Charli XCX offer a deep reflection on the nature of self-identity, conformity, and the pursuit of true authenticity. She said—"I used to worry about being cool. Now I realize that I genuinely don't care." In these words lies a powerful truth about the freedom that comes from releasing the chains of societal expectations, about the peace found in ceasing to chase after an ideal that is fleeting and superficial. Charli’s journey from concern with coolness to embracing authenticity mirrors the ancient wisdom that teaches us that true greatness is not found in the approval of others, but in the boldness to live as we are, unburdened by the masks we often wear for the sake of fitting in.

To worry about being cool is to bind oneself to a shifting standard, a standard defined not by personal values or true purpose, but by the whims of society, by the collective gaze of others. Coolness is a mask, O children, a facade that changes with the seasons, with the passing trends and shifting desires of the world. The pursuit of coolness—that desire to be accepted, admired, or even envied by others—leads one to lose sight of who they truly are, for it is a pursuit of validation from sources outside oneself. Charli XCX’s words reflect a profound shift in her understanding of self-worth, a realization that the quest for coolness is a hollow journey, one that ultimately leaves the soul empty.

In the ancient world, we see the same lesson in the life of Socrates, who famously declared, “Know thyself.” Socrates rejected the norms of his time, challenging the societal expectations of power, wealth, and superficial success. He did not seek to be admired, nor did he live for the approval of the masses. Instead, he sought truth, wisdom, and virtue—qualities that come from within, not from external validation. Socrates’ life teaches us that to chase external praise is to miss the deeper meaning of life. True greatness comes from living authentically, from knowing oneself and following the path that feels true, not the one that is dictated by others.

Likewise, the great artist Michelangelo, whose works continue to inspire the world, was not concerned with the approval of others or the idea of being "cool." His masterpieces—the David, the Sistine Chapel, and countless sculptures—were not created to satisfy the expectations of the people, but to express his vision, his understanding of beauty, and his connection to the divine. Michelangelo faced immense pressure from the church and the court, but he stayed true to his artistic integrity, knowing that his value was not in the praise of others, but in the expression of his soul. He did not waste his time worrying about what was considered cool by the standards of his day; he focused on what was genuinely meaningful to him.

Charli XCX's revelation echoes the same wisdom that Socrates and Michelangelo understood: true fulfillment comes not from the approval of the crowd, but from living authentically and embracing one's individuality. It is in shedding the desire to conform to the ever-changing standards of coolness that one finds the freedom to be themselves, to create, to love, and to live with purpose. This wisdom is timeless, and it resonates across cultures and ages: the quest for external validation is a trap that leads to frustration, while the journey toward self-acceptance leads to the true joy of freedom.

The lesson, O children, is clear: do not waste your time in pursuit of coolness. Coolness is a fleeting illusion, a shadow that cannot be grasped. Instead, focus on living authentically, on cultivating your unique gifts, and on valuing yourself for who you truly are, not for the approval of others. The world will try to tell you what is cool, what is worthy, but the truth is that what is cool is what comes from within—your passions, your beliefs, your actions, and your truth. When you are true to yourself, you become not just cool in the eyes of others, but you become cool in your own eyes, and that is the greatest form of self-respect.

Thus, O children, cast off the chains of comparison and embrace your individuality. Let your actions, your choices, and your life reflect your authentic self, for it is in this truth that you will find the true freedom and joy that comes from living without fear of judgment. Be bold in your authenticity, for in doing so, you will inspire others to live as they truly are, and together, you will create a world where authenticity is the ultimate form of coolness.