Does it matter what they think?
Yes it most certainly does. Because they are probably right.
There is a song that goes something like;
I am whatever you say I am. If I wasn’t then why would I say I am.
Now despite the actual direction and intent of the song, I want to use this line to get at some relatable truth. It’s all too common to hear people say, “I don’t care what anyone thinks.” But this is misguided. We should be aware of what others think about us. And furthermore, if what others think about us is untrue in some manner, why do they think that?
Now I am in no way suggesting that we worry ourselves with, or try to cater to the thoughts of other people. I’m only suggesting that we leverage them to better ourselves.
Romans 12:3 says
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly that he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
We are supposed to have a ‘sober’ view of ourselves. A view of ourselves free of influence. How can you have that without a view from the outside. You already know the reason and intent behind your thoughts and actions. That view, however, is isolated to you. The rest of the world is standing on the outside looking in. So to really have an accurate, objective view we have to consider the way we are perceived.
The other factor is that we (as people) are not that great at judging ourselves. There are studies that show that most people overestimate themselves and their abilities. Personal bias and cultural upbringing can tint your view of yourself. We should find ways to take off the ‘glasses’ we look through to see the world. To become more aware of how they affect our perception, and use that to build a more sober viewpoint.
Try to get some accurate feedback on the way others perceive you, and use it to make the world see who you really are.