Society likes to sell the idea that we should be unbothered by other people’s opinions. But in reality and to some extent, we should care. It’s good to listen to the people who are important to us because they can help us improve in various ways. We know they’re coming from a good place, and we can use their opinions to better ourselves and our relationships with them. We would be stuck in our ways if we didn’t have other perspectives to help us grow and evolve.
Rather than being indifferent, it’s better to ask yourself whose opinions you should value. Once you’ve answered this question, you can consider everything else as unnecessary noise that you can block out. If you’re having trouble being selective, here’s why other people’s thoughts shouldn’t matter to you.
It’s None of Your Business
Other people’s thoughts are none of your business, and that’s a good thing. It’s not your responsibility to discover how they feel about you and change their perception. So instead of working yourself up over something you have no control over, put your energy into more important endeavors. You don’t need the additional stress in your life.
Opinions Aren’t Facts
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but that doesn’t always guarantee that they’re accurate. People’s opinions are subjective, not factual. So don’t let others’ opinions of you define your character and worth, especially if they don’t know anything about you. You know yourself best, and if you’re staying true to your values, that’s all that matters. Don’t let other people’s opinions have power over you.
The World Doesn’t Revolve Around You
If you’re worried that people are thinking negatively about you, remember that their world doesn’t revolve around you. They have their own lives and are probably concerned with more pressing matters. They don’t care about how you look or talk as much as you think they do. Remember that we’re all busy thinking about ourselves and our own concerns most of the time.
Their Judgements Say More About Them, Not You
Other people’s judgments of you are less reflective of your character than theirs. Their critiques of you are usually based on their feelings, subjective opinions, insecurities, and issues, which they simply project on you. So don’t take them personally. Most of the time, others’ thoughts and feelings toward you don’t have anything to do with you. You’ll realize that it’s just a waste of time brooding over them.
Your Time and Energy Are Precious
Every moment we live this life is precious, so is it wise to spend your time and energy worrying about what others think? Will you stop yourself from doing things you love because people say
you’re not good at them? It would be unfair to yourself if you didn’t get to live the life you wanted because you were trying to please everyone else.
You Have to Deal With the Consequences
It’s easy for people to push their opinions on you because it comes at no risk to them. But don’t let others talk you into something you don’t think is a good idea because you have to live with the consequences. You can consider what others say, but you don’t have to do everything they tell you or live up to their expectations.
The Bottom Line
It’s impossible not to care about what other people think. It’s human nature to do so. But protecting your peace should be your priority. Know which opinions matter and which ones don’t. For more information, contact Action Coach Lincoln at 402-587-6329.