I feel like I’m living within the questions, "What if nobody knew me? Who would I be?"
Having moved away from the town I’ve been in for 14 years to a city where nobody knows me has been so incredibly freeing. I had no idea how much I was holding myself back because I thought people expected me to be the person I had always been, or a close version.
My daughter and I were at the YMCA a few days ago and just getting ready to leave when we walked past a Zumba class. This class had already started, was absolutely packed, and everyone was having so much fun. Someone was running out to grab water and said to the two of us, come dance! And I did. I threw my sweatshirt on the bench outside and launched into the middle of the pack. It was so much fun. I didn't have the faintest idea what I was doing. People were going left while I went right, and it was amazing. I didn’t know anybody and nobody knew me. I was free of all inhibitions. And I realized in that moment that is how I want to live my life. Whether I’m surrounded by those I’ve known forever or in the middle of Zumba class with people I’ve never met before, I want to live free from the fear of other people's judgement. Behave as if it truly doesn’t matter what others think. Because at the end of the day, we are our strongest critics. The truth is, most people really don't care and aren't paying attention to us anyway.
I now challenge you to experience this incredible freedom. The next time an opportunity arises that you know would be amazing, but you think "I couldn't possibly do that. What would people think?" Stop yourself right there and realize - who cares! Do it. And then share your experience. I would love to hear about your freeing adventure as well.