Far too many people these days are hung up on what other people will think. We all go through this one or more times during our lives. As pre-teens we didn’t want mom to kiss us in public because our peers might make fun of us. As a teenager having the right clothes was a (pardon the pun) “shoe in” with the popular crowd. It was all about what people thought about you. In some way it also made you doubt yourself solely based on what others were thinking. This of course is just one scenario there are countless others based on the same thing… what others think.
I can hardly believe it but it’s been 20 years since I left the social chaos I called High School however, in many ways I sometimes feel it’s perpetual influence on me and on the people around me. Perhaps if we simplify it, and compare it to the ridiculousness of high school insecurities, we can conquer these intruding thoughts of “caring what others think about us.”
I live in a small town. I have a large group of friends and acquaintances I’ve met through my love for live music and culture of all kinds. It’s nice to be part of a group of people that share my same passions but I’ve noticed the lingering chatter of back biting and drama amongst even the most cultured crowds. It can leave you wondering… “What are they saying about me???” Before you know it, you’re off in some dark place conjuring up the most negative shit you can think of. It’s pathetic!
Does this sound familiar?
I hope not, but if it does, it’s time to recognize this destructive pattern and put an end to it once and for all. If you’re constantly wondering what others will think, you’re living in fear. Who cares? Why is this holding you back from getting what you want? The truth is most people aren’t thinking what you think they’re thinking. Did you get that? You are your own worst enemy here.
So what can you do?
You’ve got to turn off that voice that’s asking “What will people think?” Every time you hear that question shout, “WHO CARES?” and I do mean shout it! So what if someone hears you… Right? Think of how much you’ve held back over the years because you were afraid of what others thought. Have you put off starting your own business? Changing your hair color? Learning to play guitar or take a summer to travel?
This is your life. The people around you should be supportive. If they aren’t so what, who cares what they think. Follow your heart, mind and soul every day. It’s what will make you happiest.