By: Stephenie Zamora

One of the hardest aspects of making positive changes in your life is dealing with other people. Mainly your family, friends, and colleagues who believe that, because they’re in your life, they have a say in what you do and that their opinion should always be considered.

But when it comes to YOU and YOUR life, YOU are the only person whose opinion matters.

If you make the choice to create positive changes, FOR YOURSELF, that is all that matters. You don’t need anyone’s approval, validation, or support, and most of the time, you really should avoid it.

Top 3 Reasons Why You Are the Only One that Matters

1. Sometimes People Respond from a Place of Fear

Most people are uncomfortable with change, so when you mix things up, they’re not likely to be your biggest supporter. They’re not used to your new style, interests, or habits, and this is disruptive or uncomfortable to them. From this place of fear, they tend to nudge you back to THEIR comfort zone.

Maybe your friends are playfully pressuring you to eat crappy food or have a drink, despite the fact that you’ve decided to shift to a healthier lifestyle. Maybe your significant other doesn’t like that fact that you joined a book club because he or she is insecure about you meeting new people. Maybe your family gives you a hard time about the job you took in another state because it means that they have to learn to deal with distance in your relationship.

It’s selfish and does not have your best interests in mind. Be cautious of fear-based input.

2. Sometimes People just Don’t Get It, and They Don’t Get You

If you’ve made the decision to make positive shifts and someone in your life is not supportive or is totally against the idea, they likely aren’t someone who cares about YOUR needs or really gets you.

When people in your life get you, they’ll be able to see your side, support you, and will also cheer you on! These are the people that check in with you on your progress, find ways to motivate you, and care if you reach your goals.

People that aren’t supportive and don’t get you don’t get to have a say in what you do. Ever.

3. This Is your Life

Your body, your career, your time, and your happiness are at stake. It’s important to be considerate of other people in your life, but it comes down to what you want and what you need to be happy and healthy. The best way you can serve other people is to take care of yourself first.

When it comes to choices and change, always do a gut check. What do YOU want to do? What would make YOU feel joy, passion, healthy, or on the right path? Do that. No other opinions needed.

TAKE ACTION NOW!

Leave me a comment telling me one area of your life where you’re receiving push back from outside sources. Can you identify the fear-based opinions and nudges? Where maybe you need new friends and supporters? Where have you denied your gut instincts to appease other people?

GalTime.com is an online magazine with one simple mission: to empower and entertain women.  GalTime is founded on the belief that every article and video we publish should help women lead happier, healthier, more informed lives. GALTime content is derived from a large network of contributors who are a unique combination of highly respected and often award-winning experts in their own fields, and well-established bloggers who have created powerful social and viral networks.

*Photo by Swamibu.