We often crave the approval of others, but it's worth asking ourselves: who are these individuals whose opinions we value so much?

If you look closely, you might find that we label these same people as foolish or misguided in other contexts. Why, then, do we feel the need to be validated by those we don't even respect?

It's like chasing applause from a crowd that we wouldn't seek advice from in our moments of need. The irony!

Take this thought with you as you navigate your day. When you find yourself adjusting your actions for the sake of others' approval, pause and ask yourself, "Do I truly value the judgment of these people?"

The drive for external validation is natural, but sanity lies in recognizing whose opinions genuinely matter. Focus on living a life aligned with your own values and principles. Be your own arbiter of success, and let the desire for recognition from those you consider 'mad' fall away.

Isn't it far better to be true to yourself than well-regarded by those you don't sincerely respect?