The phrase “free spirit” often conjures ideas of hippies and new-agey stereotypes.
But a free spirit is something else entirely. It’s someone who doesn’t play by the rules just because someone else says so.
They think and act for themselves in a way that is remarkably rare. Not bound to any particular doctrine or group, they live life on their terms.
However, it doesn’t mean free spirits are inconsiderate. A true free spirit is someone who connects deeply with the world and is pulled in the direction of their heart, a force that never leads them astray.
I like to be a free spirit. Some don't like that, but that's the way I am.– Princess Diana
Think you’re a true free spirit? Here are five big signs you just might be:
1. You’re aggressively independent
Perhaps the most commonly known sign, a true free spirit walks to the beat of her own drum.
You’re independent to the point of being rebellious, and don’t stop doing something or being someone just because others express distaste for it or even downright disagree with your choices.
For most people, this is easily one of the most difficult things to do in life. Outside forces are constantly bearing down upon us and we feel the pressure to conform to ideas of what someone in our position is supposed to do or be like.
However, as a true free spirit, you’re almost allergic to such ideas. The mere thought of conforming because of social pressure makes your skin crawl.
2. You live despite fear
One of the most defining characteristics of a free spirit is that they have learned to tango with fear. If fear doesn’t hold you back from doing what you love, that’s a sign you’re a free spirit.
When we use the word “tame,” we often refer to fear holding us back. The fear of what others will think and the fears of both failure and success cripple the lives and aspirations of millions of people all around the world.
To be a free spirit is to refuse to be tamed by fear of any kind. You feel it, as we all do, but you stand tall despite it and keep moving forward. Nothing– no person nor outer or inner force– will keep you from expressing your authentic self.
3. You know what you stand for
A free spirit has strong values and opinions about life.
It isn’t someone who wanders for the sake of wandering -- a true free spirit lives with intention. They appreciate their free-spiritedness and have chosen to live in a way that's aligned with their values.
If you know what you stand for and won’t let anyone tell you otherwise, you may be a free spirit.
4. You don’t easily become attached
Another one of the most prominent features of a free spirit is their unwillingness to be chained down by any one thing in life.
Sure, you might have a passion that you devote yourself to. However, you find yourself regularly changing things within your life such as your physical appearance, hobbies, quirky obsessions, and might find yourself moving frequently.
As a free spirit, you like all people, but you’re wary of being tied down in a relationship and approach such situations with caution, never allowing your wings to be clipped just for the sake of romantic attachment.
5. You have a deep appreciation for certain things in life
To be a free spirit means you’re pulled in certain directions in a very deep and meaningful way. This is a sign that you have a deep understanding, and, therefore, appreciation for those things you have a connection to.
This is a rarely understood quality of free spirits that sits just beneath the surface, however, it’s part of what gives their life such energy and vigor. They tend to be a bit more philosophical because their grasp of the world around them is keener than the average person.
It’s this combination of a relentless vitality with a deeper understanding of the world that really makes free spirits so special.
Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.