Proverbial Pleaser|

Hello readers.

I like to think that when I send these thoughts out into the inter-verse, that somehow it reaches someone's eyes.

I have this uncanny habit of going through cyclical "self development phases" as I call them. Where I acknowledging that I'm feeling bored and I need a whisp of inspiration. Yes, I said whisp.

Usually I start eating better or going the gym more frequently. Occasionally I'm brave enough to cut back on sweets.

This lasts for a period of time and then I drink too much wine, eat a bag of chips and start all over again.

So many of the quirky habits we demonstrate are so deeply rooted in our need to feel acceptable to people-or, let's be honest, at least mine are motivated by that. So many of my life decisions have been chiseled down to two questions....

What will they think? What will they say?

Give me a minute to elaborate before you jump ahead..

What will they think?

The first question is one that has been a lifelong plague-like that darn mosquito bite that doesn't stop itching, that car alarm going on and on and on, or something worse, the thing that always stays and never leaves.

You might be thinking-who are "they"? You know, I really don't know. This has been my constant companion for so long, I don't where it starts or where I end. I'm not here to go on a soapbox about how complex my life is or how I've suffered, but I will tell you one thing, one TRUTH that has given me so much freedom.

"They" or the world, will always have an opinion. Yes, I used the world always. People are naturally inclined to judge one another.

So wait, if I'm saying this correctly, I'm basically saying that regardless of how I go about my life, people will always be opinionated?

There you go. That one is free.

What will they say?

Once again, we are looking through a looking glass...as we perceive things. What will they say? What will they say about what I'm wearing? What will they say about my career choices? What will they say about my differing opinion.

Here is a truth-"they" will always talk.

I think of something that a wise man named Dr. Suess once said, "No one is youer then you."

Here's my challenge to me-and you if you feel so inclined.

Stop trying to please people.
Stop trying to present a perfect version of yourself.
Embrace the chaos, the messiness and most importantly allow your self the opportunity to grow.

Seeds don't grow unless they are in the dirt. Let the messiness inspire the change.