Why do so many of us suffer in life—whether in our careers, relationships, or with friends and family? The root cause is often our attachment to people and things, and the expectations we place on them. We expect others to fulfill us, but this leads to disappointment and pain.

Today, social media emphasizes our “rights” and what we “deserve,” promoting a self-love that often feels hollow. True self-love, however, is about recognizing that everything we need already exists within us. It’s understanding that we can give ourselves the love and fulfillment we seek, without relying on others to fill that void.

The mistake many of us make is turning to broken models—people just as flawed and lost as we are—for happiness or love. This is the greatest illusion of all. The more we attach ourselves to external people or things, the deeper our frustration grows. No one outside of us is responsible for our happiness. The only true source of fulfillment is God.

Attachment to anything but God leads to disappointment, frustration, and an unfulfilled life. God alone holds the answers to our deepest needs. When we detach from external expectations and instead attach ourselves to God, we discover true joy, peace, and purpose. Expecting imperfect people or fleeting circumstances to fulfill us will only bring pain. But in God, we find the strength, love, and blessings to navigate life with fulfillment.

Detach from the world, and attach to God—there you’ll find true meaning and happiness.