The Shadow of a Doubt

by Scott Noelle

When you’re worried about what others think of your parenting, consider this:

MAYBE they’re judging you; maybe not. But you are DEFINITELY judging yourself!

Your emotional reaction (worry) is the tip-off to your self-judgment. If you were absolutely confident in your parenting, others’ judgements wouldn’t get under your skin.

This doesn’t mean you should try to eliminate all doubt. Uncertainty is a necessary part of any leading-edge path. It makes you a better learner.

When you embrace doubt and practice being confidently uncertain, you’ll stop needing others’ approval. Better yet, some of them will drop their judgments and grow to appreciate or even emulate your ways!

Originally published on 2006-10-30
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