To fit in or not to fit in, that is the question, to echo Shakespeare’s perennial question about being or not being.
In a previous article, we wrote about what others think of you. To be sure, it’s a crucial topic – one that can dominate your thoughts and behavior.
It’s such an important topic that we want to delve further into how we relate to others – in our thoughts, feelings and actions. Many of our fears and doubts come from what we “think” others will do or say about us.
This need for approval starts out as legitimate concerns for our safety and security. In early childhood, we need protection by a caregiver. But as we will discuss, all of this energy can be flexibly used and transcended as we mature. More details in a moment.
Let’s look then at this important part of our lives – in how we relate to others – more closely.