Honestly, the opinions of others don’t matter in the grand scheme of action. I get to do exactly what I want even if it flies in direct opposition to what people think I “should be doing.” Is it uncomfortable? Umm, yes times a million. But that discomfort doesn’t make me powerless. I take all of those suggestions into consideration and then I make the best move for me.
In my twenties and first year as a thirty something I have: relocated 3 times; gotten married in secret and not told anyone for 2 years; decided not to have a child until I was 30 (and am so excited about that new bundle coming in December); quit lots of jobs, and the list goes on.
Some of those decisions were downright silly, but you know what? They were my decisions and I dealt with the consequences. And it’s all good. Did it make my parents cringe? Yes. Did family members and friends have a mouthful to say? Yep. Did it make me question if I was doing the right thing? For sure.
Did it stop me from living my life on my terms? Nope.
What is even more beautiful, everyone survived and moved on with their lives as I moved on with mine.
30 by 31 Lesson #3: Never allow the opinions of those close to you to disempower your own decision making about YOUR life.
—
What is 30 by 31 all about? I turn 31 next month, and want to reflect on my first year as a thirtysomething. Follow my journey here as I post each day with another 30 by 31 lesson.
Reimagine Self Care 
Thank you for doing this. I wish I could have come to grips with family and friends and their opinions many years ago. I am 42 and I am still holding on to those opinions that don’t matter in the decisions that I make for my life. I appreciate your candid information. In the end it is your life. You have to do what is right for you and make your own decisions. It may not be the right thing to do all the time but it will only make you stronger as you learn and grow. Congratulations on the new bundle of joy too!
Thank you so much for reading and sharing so openly. Opinions of family members can be so difficult because we love them so much and they love us so much. I hope that you will allow yourself that freedom to choose. One thing that has helped me is to intentionally send love to my family when they have certain opinions. I still choose for myself, but it helps to clear any energy inside of me that is tense and restrictive. Much love to you!