From time to time most of us will worry about someone’s opinion of us, or how people view us – It’s understandable. However, what’s not understandable is when someone is held back from doing something they love because of worrying about what people think. I have been, and still am, one of these people. But for the first time in my life, I’m starting to care less and less of what others think, and instead, do more and more of what I love. Here’s how.

1. Ask yourself who’s opinion actually matters?

Here’s the thing, no ones opinion really matters but your own. Of course it’s nice to listen to people’s feedback on something, but ultimately if you’re loving what you’re doing then that’s all that matters! We have to learn to focus on our own thoughts instead of getting consumed by what other people ‘might think’. The only opinions that should ever matter are your own and the people you love. If you surround yourself with amazing people who you trust and love, then they will always support you anyway.

2. Remove negativity.

Maybe you have memories of times when you made mistakes, maybe you still have friends that put you down, or maybe you are losing belief in yourself. Whatever it is, you can change it.

If it is that you’ve made mistakes in the past and that’s what holds you back, don’t let them hold you back! As Robin Sharma said ‘There are no mistakes in life, only lessons. There is no such thing as a negative experience, only opportunities to grow, learn and advance in the road of self-mastery. From struggle comes strength, even pain can be a wonderful teacher’. That says it all really.

If it is that there are people that put you down, I suggest you reassess whether these people deserve your friendship. Remind yourself that people tend to put you down when they are feeling inferior or down themselves. It’s nothing to do with what you’re doing, it’s their shit.

And finally, if it is that you’re loosing self belief, then take yourself back to the time when this dream started. Remind yourself of the passion that you once had for whatever it is you’re doing. Also remember that if you love something, you’ll probably be brilliant at it because you’ll be putting your heart and soul into it. Keep going, don’t let that doubt take over.

3. Don’t take yourself too seriously.

One of the greatest lessons my Mum and Dad taught me when growing up, was to learn to laugh at myself. Don’t take yourself too seriously! Have fun with everything you do. If you’re not perfect, who really cares?! What the heck is ‘perfection’ anyway? Learn to be silly, have a laugh and if you mess up, it’s fine, life goes on!

So there you have it, the 3 rules I’ve made for myself. Trust me, I feel so much better for it! I’ve still got a long way to go, but so far so good.

So go on, give it a go, learn to LIVE, I dare you.

Love always, Grace xxx

P.S. Last year I wrote a post about fighting self doubt which was similar to today’s. Here is the link if you would like to check it out 🙂