How to stop worrying about what people think

Notice that you're predicting other people's thoughts, remember you can't verify the prediction, and return to what you can actually do.

When you worry what people think, you're not responding to their opinion. You're responding to your guess about their opinion. That guess is usually harsher than reality, because it's built from your own worries.

Other people are mostly thinking about themselves. That's not an insult; it's a relief. Your action is a much smaller event in their day than it is in your head.

You don't need to stop caring about others. Caring is good. The shift is from managing their reaction, which you can't control, to doing your part well and honestly, which you can.

Try this · 1 minute

Fact or forecast

1.Write the thought: "They'll think…"
2.Ask: has this person actually said this? Or is it a forecast?
3.Write what you know for certain about the situation.
4.Ask: if nobody were watching, what would I do next? Do that.

Write down the one thing you'd do if nobody were watching. Do it.

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KAROTI offers practical ideas, not medical or mental-health treatment. If you're struggling, please talk to a qualified professional or someone you trust.