What Does It Mean to Rebel Against the System?

Ever feel like you’re trying to break free from a system so big it doesn’t even notice you’re screaming?

Like no matter how hard you push, the walls stay up?

Same.

And let me tell you—you’re not broken for feeling that way.

You’re just waking up.

Rebellion isn’t just smashing tables (though, let’s be honest, that sounds fun sometimes). It’s saying, This shit isn’t working for me, and deciding to do things differently. Let’s talk about how to spot these invisible walls, push back, and start reclaiming your power.

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What "The System" Looks Like

“The system” isn’t just one thing. It’s all the little (and big) structures that keep you small. Maybe it’s a toxic workplace that rewards burnout. Maybe it’s societal norms telling you to be selfless to the point of self-destruction. Or maybe it’s religious rules that leave no room for questioning.

For me, it started with religious conditioning. Obedience and sacrifice were the ultimate goals. Questioning those rules just got me guilt, shame, and eventually, excommunication. (Yep, I got kicked out of church for daring to think for myself.)

These systems thrive by making you feel like you’re the problem. You’re not the problem. The system is.

So let me ask you: What’s one system or expectation you’ve struggled with? Drop it in the comments if you’re feeling bold—because every rebel needs a crew, and we’re building one here.

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How Systems Keep You Stuck

Systems are sneaky af -- they tie your worth to things like productivity, conformity, or endurance.

I once worked a job where hustle culture was practically a religion. We’d work insane hours to get proposals submitted, and sure, we’d hit our goals, but I still felt empty. No amount of achievement made it better—because the system was designed to make you feel like you’re never enough.

Here’s a question that rocked my world:

Who benefits from me staying stuck?

Spoiler: It’s never you.

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What Rebellion Looks Like

Rebellion isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s quietly saying no—to a belief, a rule, or a job that’s draining you. Or setting a boundary or taking a damn nap without feeling guilty about it.

My rebellion started with saying no to things that made me feel small.

No to a toxic job.

No to beliefs that told me I wasn’t good enough.

No to rules that profited off my silence and obedience.

Here’s how you can start: Pick one area of your life where you feel trapped. It could be a job, a relationship, or even your own self-talk. Then ask yourself: What’s one thing I can do differently? It doesn’t have to be big. Maybe it’s saying no to a meeting that could’ve been an email. Maybe it’s deciding to stop apologizing for things that aren’t your fault.

Small rebellions lead to bigger ones.

And before you know it, you’re unstoppable.

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Building Your Own System

Breaking free is step one. Step two? Building a life that works for you.

For me, that’s looked like building a business aligned with my values, learning to let go of perfectionism, and embracing the messy middle. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s freedom. Freedom to be fully, unapologetically yourself.

Here’s your next step: Write your own rules. What do you want your life to look like? What kind of energy do you want to bring into your work, your relationships, your day-to-day? Write them down and let them guide you. And don’t worry about getting it perfect. You can always rewrite them as you grow.

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Join the Rebellion

Rebellion isn’t making noise for the sake of it (though, let’s be real, that’s fun too). We're breaking free from the systems keeping us small and creating something that feels real. Something that feels like you.

If my words hit home and you’d like to support my work—but a paid subscription isn’t in the budget right now—you can always drop a tip in the jar. Every little bit helps me keep creating (and maybe fund my next witchy book haul or an unnecessary amount of candles). No pressure, just deep appreciation. 💛

Let’s rebel together.

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