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How to Deal With Doubt From Your Family
Don’t let their fears hold you back
I know how it feels. Doubtful, disapproving comments coming from “well-meaning” family members or friends can feel like a punch in the gut.
You’re already doubting yourself, beating yourself up, and feeling anxious about your plans being too outlandish. You fear that you’re not good enough. The last thing you need is more negativity.
Deep down, you know that your loved ones only have your best interest at heart. You understand that their behavior is nothing more than an expression of their own fear of the unknown. They might act like they know it all, like their life experience is enough to make them an authority, but really — they’re just as scared as you are.
Instead of admitting it, they have this way of making you feel like a weirdo. Always the odd-one-out. The black sheep of the family.
And, for the longest time, you’ve listened to them. But you’re an adult now, and you shouldn’t need permission or approval from anyone.
I know you can’t just wake up one day and stop caring what your parents, siblings, friends, or coworkers think about you. You’ll still feel hurt. But by making an effort to understand why you care so damn much, you might find some relief.
