When you say yes to others, make sure you aren’t saying no to yourself ~Paulo Coehlo
Life is not a popularity contest, so being liked by everyone is not the goal. Each of us has come to life with individual journeys and lessons. Following our rhythm is imperative when we are on our mission to be who we are meant to be. And when that happens, sometimes it is when discourse with others happens too.
Do not mistake common courtesy and kindness with righteousness and self-absorption. Striving to always do for others because you want to be liked differs from being helpful and a good person but still holding your ground.
However, if we want to avoid criticism, do nothing and say nothing. But if you want to be authentically you and strive to please everyone, you are undermining yourself. When we are confident in who we are, there is no need to convince others of it.
Living for approval from others will also be our death from the lack of receiving it. Only our happiness is compromised when we strive to make everyone else happy. So, stop it!
The subject of being disliked is covered in a book: The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness. Here are Ten lessons taken from the book.
1. Don’t be afraid to be disliked. Most people fear being disliked, but this fear holds you back from living your life to the fullest. If you want to be happy, you must be willing to take risks and be yourself, even if some people do not like you.
2. Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone is different, and it is pointless to compare yourself to others. Focus on your journey and on becoming the best version of yourself.
3. Don’t worry about what other people think. What other people think of you is none of your business. It is essential to focus on your thoughts and feelings and not to let the opinions of others dictate your life.
4. Take responsibility for your happiness. No one else is responsible for your enjoyment. It is up to you to create the life you want and find the things that make you happy.
5. Don’t dwell on the past. The past is gone and cannot be changed. It is essential to focus on the present moment and to make the most of it.
6. Don’t worry about the future. The future is uncertain, but having hope and believing in yourself is essential.
7. Be true to yourself. The most important thing is to be true to yourself and to live your life in a way that is authentic to you.
8. Don’t be afraid to change. Change is a part of life; being open to change and willing to grow is important.
9. Be kind to yourself. Being kind to yourself and forgiving yourself for your mistakes is essential. Everyone makes mistakes, and it is vital to learn from them and move on.
10. Live in the present moment. The present moment is all we have, so living in it and making the most of it is essential.
The pathway to happiness, love, and balance is letting go of everything that prevents us from becoming the best-evolved persons we can be. Contentedness in ourselves does not require outside approval. Once we can accept ourselves, the world will accept us for who we are. It’s ok that everyone doesn’t like you. Risk standing out from the crowd and being who you are in all of its brilliance, shining your light and illuminating your onward journey.
Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.
~Lao Tzu
BOOK: https://amzn.to/47vW6WM
