Having great decision–making skills – without caring what others think – pays dividends.

As a social species, we’re also powerfully invested in others’ perceptions and judgments of us and the decisions we make. Many of us are hampered to make even the most trivial decisions – say, choosing a restaurant for a social gathering or buying a new shirt – because of a fear of what others might think. But that type of worry isn’t helping you.

Instead, try being more committed to the decisions that make you happy than the ones that are “right.” Imagine the freedom you’d feel if you unapologetically decide to wear the outfit to the gym that makes you feel most comfortable, regardless of its fashion rating, or to spend time with the people that make you feel most comfortable, regardless of their popularity. The words showered upon preschoolers are just as true, and certainly more difficult, for mature folks to follow: Be true to yourself. As our Italian friends show us, your life won’t only be happier, but also healthier and longer, for it. 

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