Be Exquisite
Joy Bell once said, "Do not yearn to be popular; be exquisite. Do not desire to be famous; be loved. Do not take pride in being expected; be palpable, unmistakable." These words are a reminder that our true essence is not defined by the opinions of others.
As I reflect on my own journey, I recall the days when I allowed the thoughts and judgments of others to shape my life. I was preoccupied with fitting in, seeking approval, and molding myself into what I thought others wanted me to be. Perhaps many of you can relate, for it's a path that often leads us away from our authentic selves.
But what if we dared to break free from these chains of conformity? What if we chose to live life on our terms, unburdened by the need for validation? Let me assure you, it's not an easy path to tread initially, but the rewards are immeasurable. When you liberate yourself from the weight of other people's expectations, you unlock a world of possibilities.
As I grew older, a profound truth emerged: Your opinion is not mine concern. The judgments of others should never hold more significance than the value we place on ourselves. If someone can't appreciate us for who we are, that's their loss, not ours.
Remember, you cannot control how others perceive you, nor can you control their thoughts. So, why invest your precious energy in something so beyond your grasp? Instead, channel that energy into nurturing your own happiness, into pursuing your passions, and into becoming the best version of yourself.
I try to be living proof that when you stop caring about the opinions of others, you gain the freedom to live authentically, to chase your dreams unapologetically, and to embrace your uniqueness with pride. Let your life be a testament to the power of self-acceptance, for in doing so, you'll inspire others to do the same.
In the grand story of your life, you are the author, and your happiness is the ultimate plotline. So, go forth with confidence, be exquisite, be loved, be unmistakably yourself, and remember that your journey is defined by your own convictions, not by the judgments of the world.
