24 - Your Opinion of Me Is None of My Business

50 Years, 50 Lessons

Lesson 24:  Your Opinion of Me Is None of My Business

This is one of my favorite sayings.

I read it in a book once. I can’t remember the book, but the statement just shook me.

Because it’s right. What you think of me is a “you” problem. You can try to make it a “me” problem, but I can choose not to take that on.

Now, there is a line between your opinion of me as feedback, and your opinion of me as a person.

If you want to give me feedback, sure. I am all ears. Especially if it comes from a place of care, concern, or is aimed at being constructive and helpful.

If you want to criticize me, no thanks. In that case, keep your opinion, or know I am not interested. Then, please, ask yourself: “Why do I even have an opinion about her at all?” Reflect on where that comes from: judgement? Interest? Fear? Something else?

I am sure we all catch ourselves on social media getting triggered by comments or ignorance and wanting to reactively weigh in. Especially when it seems personal. But have empathy for those who want to knock you down behind a keyboard. That’s weak, and their opinion of you really shouldn’t matter. Reflect on the feelings that come up for you when you feel compelled to engage with someone who has ill intentions. Stay above it.

Being immune to the opinions of others - especially of others you don’t know, who don’t know you, or are of no consequence to your life - is freeing.

Let it go. Their opinion of you is theirs. Don’t make it yours.

Your Turn:

1. Whose opinion just doesn’t or shouldn’t matter?

2. Have you been caught in a trap of reactivity to realize they just weren’t worth it?

To All: Thank you for being on this journey with me – past, present, and future.

Julie