IT’S HUMAN NATURE
Do you ever stop and wonder, why do I care so much about what other people think? I guarantee you and I are not the only ones thinking this.
According to this study done by Daniel K. Campbell-Meiklejohn et. al, “The opinions of others can easily affect how much we value things.” There are many articles and books that one could read on this topic. It is part of our human nature to care what others think. It literally affects every decision we make whether we realize it or not. But it is also natural to want to care less. So I decided to shift gears. Instead of focusing my energy on why I am so worried about what other people think of me, I decided to focus my energy on what I think of myself.
WHAT TRIGGERED
THIS THOUGHT
Recently, I purchased a bunch of cute clothing from Express and H&M when I saw they were having huge sales. And then that morning, as I was going through my haul, I took a look at the weather and realized it was going to be a gorgeous day. So why not make the most of it? I set out my outfits, got my tripod ready, and went down the hill behind our apartment.
Being able to get some great new shots for my blog and my blog’s Instagram account had me so excited. I had blow-dried my hair, my skin was actually cooperating that day, and I felt DAMN DARN CUTE IF I DO SAY SO MYSELF.
But then, my neighbor’s child decided to prop themselves in their window. They proceeded to stare at me for what felt like at least 20 minutes (although it was probably more like 3-4). But it was enough to shake my confidence. I was so worried about what this kid was thinking. When I made the decision to take the pictures, I thought I’d be more worried about my adult neighbors watching me. Because at least adults will take a look and then leave you alone. When kids stare at you, they STARE THROUGH YOUR SOUL. They don’t care if you see them staring, they just stare longer.
Luckily, the kid went away and I was able to finish up and get some great shots (see above!) As I was editing my photos later that evening, I kept thinking, why did that kid cause me so much distress?? Why should I care what other people think? I was doing something that I was EXCITED to do. I was creating content for my blog, following my passion.
THE ONLY OPINION THAT SHOULD MATTER MOST IS MY OWN
So I decided to come up with a mantra/series of phrases that will help me when I am feeling this way. When I am feeling embarrassed, dumb, “extra”, etc. When I am so focused on what other people think of me, and I am losing sight of who’s opinion matters most – my own!
The greatest part about my “confidence mantras” is how easily they can apply to many parts of my life.
Share in the comments, what are your “confidence mantras”? (feel free to steal mine!)
Xoxo,
The Anxious Shopper 😘
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