Cultivating confidence in ourselves is the greatest antidote to caring too much about what people think of us. Insecurity and feelings of inferiority make us dependent on the approval of others and fearful of their scorn. However, by focusing on strengthening our mind and body, improving our character, achieving goals, and sculpting a life to be proud of, we can diminish the significance of others' opinions. Epictetus reminds us that seeking outside approval compromises our integrity, and instead encourages us to be our own witness.
“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 […]
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How to Stop Being a Slave to the Opinions of Other People first appeared on
Academy of Ideas.