The Challenge – What Others Think of You
April 18, 2010The Challenge:
The other day I was driving behind a school bus, and as we came to a stop I watched as a young boy with a grin from ear to ear jumped off the bus wearing a huge Dr. Seuss hat. I laughed to myself and tried to recall what it’s like when we’re younger and we care far less about what others think than we do as adults. For this challenge, identify situations in the past two weeks in which you did NOT do something because of the fear of what others might think of you.
This task is worth 25-points on your scorecards.
Thought Provoking Questions:
Who were the people that hindered you? Co-workers, etc.
Why do you care so much about their opinion?
The Lesson:
The truth is that people probably aren’t paying as close attention to your actions as you might think. It’s part of our ego to believe that our actions become the topic of discussion at work or elsewhere. Naturally, certain actions could become a hot topic but, in general, people are far too consumed with their own lives to really concern themselves with yours. Much of the fear of what others think comes from within us and our own insecurities.
We should consider the reason for the fear. If it’s a fear of looking stupid, it’s probably a sign that we need to build our confidence. If it’s a fear of being an outcaste, it could mean you’ve outgrown your friends. If someone does share a negative opinion, do your best to let it go, because often times a vocal person has their own insecurities that are merely being highlighted by your actions.
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss
thanks for sharing them