learn and re-invent

Thoughts

Today, the following thoughts occurred:

1. When subconsciously wanting to impress a group of individuals, we tend to conform our own behaviors to that of members in the group. For example, what may not have been so bad is suddenly “awful” because everyone else is voicing their opinion of the “worst experience ever.”

2. This is silly. It’s time to stop caring so much about what others think.

3. But wait - is that just naive? Or am I actually being brave? 

4. It is necessary to care sometimes about what others think. For example, at work, if people are giving you feedback or hints toward your lackluster performance, you need to step up and be receptive toward their opinions. Yes, they are only opinions, but being open towards what different people may think will be much more effective than remaining prideful and closed off from potentially improving yourself. Same with some social behaviors that may offend others - stereotyping, pre-judgement, racism, offensive remarks, etc. - feedback will only help you rather than hurt you. 

5. Your personality, that’s a different matter. The types of jokes you make, the way you react to certain comments, your food preferences, your hobby preferences, etc. - that’s a personal choice. You have the privilege to be whoever you are, whomever you want to become - so why are we scared to reveal ourselves? Why not just be a first rate version of ourselves rather than a second rate version of those around you?

6. It’s time to stop over-thinking so much. It’s also time to let go and just be. I care about start ups, ideas, innovations, food, experiences, and travel and those are things I should never suppress in order to conform to my environment. I want to learn about other’s experiences and stories, but there is no need to conform to their way of thinking. Inquire, learn about yourself and others - but learning is never the same as adopting.

Side note - A quote I read yesterday: at work (for example), if someone dissed you for unqualified reasons and you do not stand up for yourself, you’ve just allowed yourself to be slapped in the face twice - once by them, and once by not believing in yourself. Don’t sell yourself short.

7. Ironically, it’s time to let go and care more at the same time. Feels like a new beginning.