Set Yourself Free from the Opinion of Others

The truth is so subjective and there is no one universal norm in regard to anything in life. If there were, we would agree a lot more and argue a lot less. There would not be so much conflict in the world. We construct the idea of who we are very early in life through interactions with family members who shape our mindsets through their own values, experiences, traditions, rituals, behaviors, etc. For instance, my mindset as an immigrant woman, born and raised in Ukraine will be very different from an Indian woman who lives in India. Her opinion of who I am will most likely be based on her beliefs. 

So, what do we really seek in the opinion of others and how much of it reflects who we truly are? I believe it all comes down to being liked and accepted. We feel that if others approve of us, that means they like us…that is until we do or say something that does not fit their mental or emotional framework, which is again, shaped by their own sociocultural, religious, familial beliefs and life experiences.

The only opinion that matters at the end of the day is your own opinion about yourself. Do you like the man/woman in the mirror? Does he/she lives, speaks, and acts out of love and integrity? Do choices he/she makes bring peace and joy to the soul? The most interesting thing happens when we live a life of integrity and freedom. We begin to inspire others and attract wonderful people into our lives. We spread light wherever we go and speak the language of love. Others begin to accept us just as we are, regardless of what their beliefs are…and if they do not, they sure begin to admire our fearlessness and open heart. 

“The greatest fear in the world is of the opinions of others. And the moment you are unafraid of the crowd you are no longer a sheep, you become a lion. A great roar arises in your heart, the roar of freedom.” Osho