Reflect on the character and values of those whose approval you seek to reduce the need for social approval.
Detach from the opinions of those who do not deserve respect or admiration to free yourself from seeking group approval and constraints.
Deep dives
Diminishing excessive need for social approval
Many people measure their worth based on the approval of others, conforming to societal expectations and forsaking their own desires. To overcome this, individuals should reflect on the character and values of those whose approval they seek. By questioning the importance of their opinions, one can gradually reduce the anxiety and need for social approval.
Navigating social anxiety in groups and crowds
The presence of a group or crowd often intensifies the need for approval and triggers social anxiety. To address this, individuals can train themselves to see each person within the group as an individual and not focus on the collective opinion. By detaching from the opinions of those who do not deserve respect or admiration, individuals can free themselves from the constraints of seeking group approval.
Overcoming fear of disapproval and ridicule
It is essential to cultivate a state of calm indifference when faced with disapproval, ridicule, or rejection. Pausing before responding to insults allows individuals to choose a suitable reaction rather than acting on reflex. Responding with silence, like a stone, denies power to the instigator seeking a reaction and maintains internal composure. Additionally, deploying humor, both directed towards others and ourselves, diffuses tension and demonstrates the ability to rise above negativity.
“Most people can never, even for a moment, disentangle themselves from the restraints imposed by those around them, nor can they disregard their approval. From the moment they begin to understand their parents’ smiles and frowns they have needed the moment to moment approval of everyone, even strangers…These people measure their entire worth by what […]