Are the Joneses keeping up with you?

Do you ever worry about what others think about you? Does it make you change your decisions? Do you “should” all over yourself instead of following your instincts and doing what you want? You’re not alone. Many people change their daily routines – and their lives – according to what they think they should be instead of what they want to be because of fear of what others are thinking. This is a recipe for regret, resentment, and stress.

So how do you stop worrying about what others think? People tend to be judgmental by nature – we are constantly evaluating our environment and making sure we’re safe. We also tend to be our own worst critics and we don’t cut ourselves enough slack and this can lead to unhappiness.

The best legacy that we can leave is a life well lived.  To live well we it’s important to focus on what you want, not just what you think you should have.  Someone once said that it’s your duty to live a life of abundance because only then you can be of service to more people.  When yourself are depleted how can you give to others?  It’s not just about money– that’s typically what the whole idea of keeping up with the Joneses is about.  If you have money but no love, health, or happiness then what do you have?

Living your best life can be very simple if you put judgments and “should” aside. Simply know what you want – and feel good about it.  You don’t have to want it because you think it will impress others. You don’t have to keep yourself from wanting it because you think it will make someone else feel bad.

1. Make sure it’s ecological – good for you, your family, your community, and the planet
2. Take action towards what you want and remember, you don’ t have to have the “how” figured out, only the what – the rest will follow as you take action and focus on how it’s all coming to you.

Understand that not everyone is going to love the changes you make and may even try to stop you. This is because change can be scary for some people. Living by example and focusing on what you can do and have is a great way to inspire others.