Whose Approval Do You Need?

I wrote yesterday that I have to stop comparing myself to other people, only to my best self. One thing that I didn't mention (I didn't think about it at the time), is that it is necessary to stop caring about 'what other people will think'.

To be able to listen, to weigh options, and to make a decision that is right for you, even if it conflicts with the common wisdom around you, is a real strength that should not be disparaged as simply 'being hard-headed'.

Sometimes, the ideas that you try won't work. Sometimes conventional wisdom wins the round. But someone told me a long time ago the more that you rely on your instincts, the more reliable they become. Eventually, your instincts will look like clairvoyance to someone who hasn't seen the missteps to reach that level of accuracy.

Being able to stand alone for what you think is right isn't limited to world-changing events and ideas; it also is necessary when you want to do what is best for you and your family, and others (for whatever reason) want you to do something else. Whether it is raising your children differently, or following your dream to do something that no one else has done before, the ability to survive being emotionally alone is a must.

It is a trial by fire… Can you stand the heat?

Whose Approval Do You Need?