THIS IS HOW TO STEP OUT OF THE MATRIX AND LIVE YOUR OWN LIFE

'Stepping out of the matrix' or 'breaking through the matrix'. The idea behind this is that you detach yourself from the system. The most extreme example is people who declare themselves sovereign, which makes them think they no longer have to abide by Dutch laws and tax obligations. Now we certainly won't recommend the latter to you, as it is guaranteed to cause misery. Still, it certainly can't hurt to explore whether you suffer any disadvantages from the proverbial matrix. Read here how you can free yourself from the rules and beliefs of others and choose more of your own path.

What is the matrix?

The term matrix comes from the film of the same name. In it, the protagonist discovers that he and everyone else lives in a virtual simulation, controlled and used by a higher system. Right down to their ideologies and thoughts.

• Stepping out of the matrix symbolises the opposite: living from complete free will, without being tied to the system. Think for instance about your mortgage, insurance, taxes and compulsory education. But social norms such as the importance of status or career are also part of the trapping system.
• Stepping out of the matrix is also known as spiritual awakening. You realise what your role in the universe is, what life is all about and how to become less of a so-called slave of the system.
• Stepping out of the matrix for dummies

Deep down, many play with the idea that there is more to life than work, social media, watching TV and flying holidays. This can niggle and cause discomfort, stress or even burnouts and depression. We 'have' so many things to do, without thinking about whether we want all those things in the first place. Thus, we make ourselves slaves to the system, so to speak. The good news is that you can break those shackles of the system - or at least loosen them a bit. The ultimate goal is to feel more comfortable and authentic, even if you live in a world that doesn't quite suit you.

Step 1: become aware of the matrix and its effects on you

Do you recognise that nagging feeling of dissatisfaction with your life, or don't feel quite at home anywhere? Then your eyes are already opening. The first step out of the matrix is set in motion as soon as you become aware of the pattern that you feel is being imposed on you. These are all the things that keep you from living the life you desire too much. Some examples:

• Rowan is in a cosy monogamous relationship with his partner, who has been talking about getting married and having children for some time. This always seemed a logical next step, after all, it is the norm among all their friends and family members. When Rowan completely lets go of these societal expectations, the realisation follows that this very script does not feel OK at all. From this insight arises the mission to find out how Rowan can really follow his heart completely.
• Wim always easily got good grades at school. Both his older siblings and parents went to university. Without even considering anything else, he also enrolled in university. After years of hard work and nice earnings, he suffers burnout. During the long recovery process, he discovers that he feels best when he is gardening. For Wim, stepping out of the matrix means going against the expectations of those close to him and finding work and pursuits that make him happiest.

Step 2: do more things that suit you

If you know which things in your life feel like slavery to the system, you hold the key to getting out of the matrix. (Self-)knowledge is absolute power when it comes to shaping your ideal life. Give yourself space for your personal spiritual growth. Follow courses, get in touch with like-minded people, get a coach or therapy, try all kinds of new and especially fun things.

A vision quest is a useful tool for this. Read in this article what a vision quest is and how to go about it. Also delve into the subject of introspection, as it will definitely give you more self-insight.

Another good tip: start journalling. By keeping track of what you are experiencing and living, you will live many times more consciously. This way, you can break the rut and pinpoint where your heart lies.

Step 3: manifest and transform

Now that you know what needs to change in your life to escape from the matrix, you can start shaping that exit strategy. These articles on manifesting and living by the laws of karma will take you a long way.