The fear of being judged is something most of us experience at some point. For some, it’s a fleeting worry. For others, it’s a heavy burden that shapes everyday decisions, relationships, and their self-worth. This fear can become so ingrained that we start living our lives for other people, by watering ourselves down, staying quiet, and avoiding risks that might draw attention or criticism.

The reality is that at some point, we’re all going to be judged, for something by someone, whether it be for how we look, how we parent, how we speak, or how we live. We are all open to being negatively affected by something that someone else says or does this potential outcomes makes us feel vulnerable or even exposed.