“If you pay nervous attention to other people’s opinions, maneuver to obtain their indulgence and to stand high in their esteem, you will be whisked about in their winds and you will lose yourself.” – Jo Loubert

I read that in a book called The Nine Modern Day Muses and a Bodyguard. {It’s a great read for those looking for creative inspiration.} Anyway, it was a reminder that even those who say age or experience thickens the skin, feel a significant sadness when others can’t hold them in their truths.

You may, for example, bounce back if a friend tells you she doesn’t like your outfit, your boyfriend or your job. For that reason, maybe the upcoming holidays doesn’t scare you one bit. Your mother-in-law’s comments on how she doesn’t like the way you’re raising her grandkids are fine by you. You’ve learned other people can have their own opinions, but that doesn’t mean you have to listen to them.

Yet, when you’re down. When something tragic happens, a death, a job loss, an unexpected diagnosis, all you want is for others to understand what you’re going through and be sympathetic for it. Yesterday, our Facebook friends shared the things they wished loved ones said to them when going through a difficult time. If you are in a tough place in your life, read their comments here and imagine what it would feel like if someone said those words to you. I found them to be beautifully healing. I hope you will too.

The Fantasy Of Weight Loss & Finding True Fulfillment: Part 2 With Ellen Frankel

(Weightless) – Why do we place our hopes and dreams on the numbers of a scale? If you need to refocus your efforts on cultivating a better relationship with food and finding true contentment not one sold to you by marketing savvy diet companies, read this.

Are Positive Emotions Always Beneficial?

(Adventures in Positive Psychology) – If you’ve looked down on Positive Psychology in the past because you thought it was all smiling faces, you might be surprised by this post. To provide a more accurate picture, Joe Wilner’s explaining how emotions are only as positive and beneficial as its context.

What is Social Phobia and Why is it Important?

(Anxiety & OCD Exposed) – Social phobia can be debilitating simply because we all need people. Yet, those with social phobia are also least likely to seek help. May this post encourage you to get the help you need so you won’t have to suffer any longer.

Cultivating a Practice of Mindful Breathing – Three Essential Principles (3 of 3)

(Neuroscience & Relationships) – Want to incorporate mindful breathing into your daily life? If you’re ready to live a fulfilling life, take control of your emotions and make better choices, read this.

Generic Versus Name Brand Medications: Are They Equal?

(ADHD from A to Zoë) – If you thought the only difference between generic and name brand was the cost, Zoë says, “Think again.” Find out why she believes generic drugs just aren’t cutting it.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 20 Oct 2011
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.