What’s the greater risk? Letting go of what people think or letting go of how I feel, what I believe, and who I am? – Brené Brown

In today’s era of immediate commentary, and unlimited access to an audience via social media, it is easy to become obsessive about what other people think. The impulse to respond to online critics, to those outside of the arena, is real. The seduction of “likes” and “follows” and the inclination to “please the masses” can pull us away from our core values.

It is imperative that each of us press pause, stay true to our core values, and remain focused on what’s most important. In the face of critics who only blame others and complain, in response to those who spread fear and hate, we must turn to those individuals who are willing to do the work with us. Listen to those who you respect, trust, and love. Have the courage to tune out those who really don’t matter – be true to who you are.