B2 – Upper Intermediate
Human beings are social creatures, constantly seeking connection and validation from others. As a result, we often find ourselves thinking about what other people say. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors.
The reason why we think about what other people say stems from our desire for acceptance and belonging, the influence of societal norms and expectations, as well as our innate need for information and learning.
While it is important to consider the opinions of others in order to grow personally and socially, it is equally crucial to maintain a sense of individuality and critical thinking in order to make informed decisions that align with our own values and beliefs.
This article will teach you the 6 ways to care less about what other people think.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/6-ways-care-less-what-other-people-think-you-mert-damlapinar-/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “bereft” mean? “In other words, our worrying about what others think of us stems from the fear that we may be bereft of friends or intimacy.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does “naysayer” mean? “It’s always easier to be yourself and feels good about life when you’re surrounded by people who uplift and inspire you, rather than spending your days surrounded by naysayers and negative people who suck the energy out of your dreams.” Use it in your own sentence.
- What does the phrase “to stand in one’s way” mean? “We all have different needs and different paths to pursue, so don’t let your fear of what others think to stand in your way.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘to stand in one’s way’ in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think is the hardest thing to accomplish, out of the six ways the article mentioned to care less about what other people say?
- How can one care less about what others think?
- “All the world is not a stage; you just think it is.” What are your thoughts?
- How come what other people think matters? or does it not? What are your thoughts?
- Can you think of a time when you proved the naysayers wrong or had to overcome your fears about what others might think of you? Share your experience.
2 replies on “Care Less about What Other People Think”
– What do you think is the hardest thing to accomplish, out of the six ways the article mentioned to care less about what other people say?
For me, the most difficult advice is number six. I think it is very difficult for other people’s opinions not to affect someone.
I think that if my friends or family tell me I am wrong, those comments affect me.
– How can one care less about what others think?
I think that is something only time can solve. When I was a child, other people’s opinions were less important. When I was young, opinions were very important, but now that I am an adult, other people’s opinions matter less.
I think that when I am an old man, other people’s opinions will matter even less to me.
– “All the world is not a stage; you just think it is.” What are your thoughts?
The world is a stage. Nobody is really as they seem. I think Shakespeare wanted to say that.
But it is true that most people are not worried about your life and do not talk about it. Maybe there are some people who like to talk about others’ lives, but it is not very common.
– How come what other people think matters? or does it not? What are your thoughts?
For me, people’s opinions matter in a limited way. I think opinions always affect people, but only a little in my case.
– Can you think of a time when you proved the naysayers wrong or had to overcome your fears about what others might think of you? Share your experience.
I never had that experience. If I had to face that, maybe I would listen to my family.
You are doing a good job practicing your writing. Keep it up!
Here is another expression you can use to improve this sentence a bit:
Happy writing!