Eleanor Roosevelt was a very savvy woman who made statements like: “Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent”. What do you think? Is that true?
Particularly in business, I think it is most definitely true. Women in business can tend to let the opinions of others shape or even dictate how they feel about themselves. This can stem from a desire to be liked by everyone or from a general lack of self-confidence.
Early on in my business journey I experienced great support from family, friends and many other business owners. But sadly, I also have examples of negative and unhelpful comments from another business owner that at the time I let affect me. This person’s intention was clearly to make me feel inferior and unworthy of success. But I soon put those comments in perspective and realised that she was a lone voice – and I was letting that lone voice shape my confidence in my abilities.
Firstly, I surmised that she was acting like the classic bully with a lack of self confidence – if you feel bad about yourself, make others feel bad too. Secondly, I put her comments in perspective and realised her opinions were just that – opinions not based on fact or delivered with any desire to support my endeavours.
And most importantly, other than analysing that period in time to write this article, I have barely given those comments a second thought. A sure way to feel inferior is to dwell on negative comments and attitudes. All that does is give power to the negative person.
To be successful, surround yourself with positive and successful people. Don’t give away your power by listening to people who have no desire to help you succeed.
