How do you stay true to yourself when you're surrounded by friends and/or family that have an opinion on EVERYTHING you do? Who constantly offer their opinion, whether you asked for it or not? Who seem to imply they "know better"?

It's not easy! However, if you're going to lead the life YOU really want, you're bound to run into a few folks who just won't (or can't) understand where you're coming from. Don't let their strong opinions guide your choices. Stay true to yourself by tuning out the naysayers and tuning into the only opinion that really matters - your own. These tips will help.

1. Value your SELF and your CHOICES. When you do, others will too. OWN the choices you make in your life. When you doubt yourself, others will doubt you. When you believe in yourself, in time, others will believe in you too.

2. Realize, opinions are more about the person giving them then they are about you. Remember each person sees the world only as they can see it. This doesn't mean they are right, better, or smarter than you. They are simply different, have a different set of values, beliefs and life experiences. Their opinions may be valid, or invalid. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide how outside opinions fit your life.

3. Take time off. Too many people telling you what they think? Take time for yourself. To hear the whispers of your heart you have to be quiet and listen closely. You can't hear what your heart wants YOU to hear if you drown it out by giving others too much "air" time in your life.

4. Know yourself. Be willing to deepen your sense of self. Create a personal philosophy for living. Know your values and what you care about most. Doing so will increase your confidence and how people look at you.

5. Set boundaries. Some people just go too far. Sometimes it's OK to respectfully listen but it's also OK to set boundaries for areas of your life that are off limits.

6. Stand by YOUR side. Others may not be there for you when you most need them so you have to be there for yourself. Trust yourself and be willing to stand up for what you believe in.

The point is, nobody can guide you better than you can guide yourself. Listening to and learning from others has immeasurable value, but ultimately your decisions are yours alone. Realize the naysayers, or those with strong opinions, are fearful of life in their own way, for their own reasons. Learn to decipher the difference between opinions you should consider and those you should let go of.

Copyright 2006 Cari Vollmer