But What Will They Think?

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From the time we are kids in school, we’re conditioned to worry about what people think of us. Kids get bullied for being different or are scared to perform in a talent show for fear of what the audience will think. Our entire lives are wrapped in this idea that we have to care what other people think about us. It’s true for kids in school but it’s also true even as adults. That concern for other people’s opinions doesn’t disappear as we get older, it stays put no matter where we are in life. And I think it does us a lot of harm.

​There’s a quote I like that says, “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who
mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” It’s just a simple little saying, but the
meaning rings true. Fear of the opinions of others is something that will only hold you back in life. Be who you are confidently and fearlessly--that’s the only way to live.

Think about the people you admire most: singers, actors, artists, entrepreneurs...whoever they are, how did they get to where they are today? Do you think they let their nerves or fears of what people would think get in the way of their dreams? Of course not! They knew what they wanted and they chased after it with everything they had in them. And they became successful, passionate people because of it. If you want something in life, you have to have the confidence to go after it without worrying about what people might think.

So often, we live in fear of judgment from others. We let that fear decide what we do and how we act, when really, it shouldn’t matter to us at all. The person you are inside--strong, talented, beautiful, and passionate--that person doesn’t change based on others’ opinions of you. Don’t get so caught up in that that you forget what you’re capable of. More often than not, the people who are judging your dream are not the type of people who should matter to you. And the ones who do matter? They’re busy pursuing their own dreams!

Take a good look at yourself and ask this question: Am I letting my fear of what people think
stop me from living my dreams? If you are...it’s time to reevaluate. And remember, the people who matter will support you in your pursuits. And the people who don’t? They shouldn’t matter! Keep chasing your dream and doing what makes you come alive...it’s the only way to really live.