Perceived Judgments

Whenever I go to the gym, my brain defaults to thinking people are watching and judging me. But as I begin my routine or whatever workout I have been planning, I realize that almost everyone is absorbed in their own workouts, checking themselves out in the mirror, watching their form, or figuring out what angle they look best at. It reminds me that people are too busy thinking about themselves to think about me. Frankly, it might be a little conceited of me to believe they were even that concerned with me in the first place. So, if I feel insecure or some perceived judgment, it likely comes from my inner critic. 

Ask yourself where this inner judgment comes from and where it might be rooted. Then, ask yourself what you might need to let go of this judgment, embracing all parts of yourself. Perhaps it’s just a little love and awareness, or acceptance for being completely yourself, no need for masks or hiding. Many of my insecurities have stemmed from childhood, and simply revisiting my inner child to show her love is all that is required to move forward unabridged.

If the judgment feels harsh or too difficult to let go of, I ask myself what is the worst thing that can come from being __(insert concern here)__. Some examples might include being too much, too crazy, too carefree, not pretty enough, not fun enough, overweight, etc). Inside every negative, there is a seed of positive - a way to turn our downfalls into our strengths, which offers light, encouragement, and inspiration for those around us to do the same.  Perhaps the perceived judgment is coming from a lack of confidence, feeling underqualified, or feeling like an imposter. In this case, thank your brain for bringing your weaknesses to your attention and remind it that you are slowly but surely working towards your goals and that those feelings will gradually fade. 

Awareness and positive self-talk can encourage us to break past our own inner critic and limiting beliefs. Just remember, people aren’t thinking of you, they’re far too busy thinking about themselves.