As we start another new year, many of us make a New Year’s resolution that we hope will improve who we are, how we work and what we achieve. These resolutions are often based our perception of ourselves and perceptions of those around us. According to the Harvard Business Review, building resolutions based on what people think of us may not be the best approach. In their article “How to Stop Worrying About What Other People Think of You,” they outline why we may not be preforming at a high level because of our innate fear of people’s opinions. This can impact our confidence, creativity, and overall potential.
“If you start paying less and less attention to what makes you you — your talents, beliefs, and values — and start conforming to what others may or may not think, you’ll harm your potential. You’ll start playing it safe because you’re afraid of what will happen on the other side of the critique. You’ll fear being ridiculed or rejected. When challenged, you’ll surrender your viewpoint. You won’t raise your hand when you can’t control the outcome. You won’t go for that promotion because you won’t think you’re qualified.”
The Review’s article recommends a few exercises to help conquer our fear of other people’s opinions. They suggest confidence building statements, developing a personal philosophy, and honest reflection. Through these practices, we can find our confidence and reach our full potential for the New Year!