I’ve grown to be pretty laid back about almost everything in the last couple of years. Some five years ago, I was pretty extreme when it came to opinions and arguments. I’ve come a long way since then and you’ll often find me aloof enough to not care. As long as it doesn’t affect me or my peace, I really don’t. I consider this change an important yardstick in how I measure my growth.
However, I realised that over time the not caring turned into a fear, of sorts. I’d often ignore my personal preferences, convictions or space just to avoid arguments or being called out on how I used to be. Simply put, I found myself trying too hard to be liked.
I’ve learned recently that while getting your pitchfork out at everything you hear or that happens isn’t the best way to go about it, there’s an equal risk in not speaking out if something truly bothers or affects you, your well-being or your peace. You have to tell people when you didn’t like something, be brutally honest if nothing else works, and say “No” when it’s required.
Other people are extremely important and being kind is something you should strive for in everything you do but your priority should always be going to sleep at night with a clear head. The key isn’t to not care; the key is to care about the right stuff.