Have you ever let a comment, perhaps one made in passing, control you for years? I have, and the impact was far deeper than I realized. Words have so much power, and when we give them too much, we lose control of our own lives. I learned this through two different experiences that I’m now sharing with you in hopes that it might help you reclaim your happiness, freedom, and power.

Experience #1: Years ago, I had created a blog to share my thoughts, stories, and life lessons. I had poured my heart into it, and it felt amazing to connect with others. Then, one day, someone reached out and said, “I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to just verbally diarrhea all your feelings.” This one comment hit hard, and I let it hold me back from sharing, even though multiple people had told me they loved my posts. For years, I doubted myself. Looking back, I can see they probably didn’t mean harm. But I allowed their words to silence me.

Experience #2: After years of building my business, I was so proud to have finally bought my first home and then a condo. I felt accomplished, fulfilled, and thrilled to have something to show for all my hard work. But someone warned me, “People in this town will start to hate you if they see you become successful.” I had no idea how much this one comment would impact me. I began worrying about how others would see me, holding back out of fear of being disliked. I let that fear overshadow my joy. I was so worried about other people’s opinions that I forgot to just live my life and celebrate my own achievements.

The saddest part? It took me years to see how I’d let these words control my choices, my actions, and my happiness. If any of this resonates with you, I encourage you to look within and ask:

What’s the worst that could happen if I let go of others' opinions and just live for myself?

3 Steps to Reclaim Your Happiness and Power:

1. Identify the Words That Are Holding You Back

Think about the comments, judgments, or criticisms that you’ve allowed to influence your choices. Write them down. Sometimes, just seeing the words on paper can help you see how small they really are.

2. Decide Whose Opinion Truly Matters

Reflect on whose opinions you’re prioritizing and why. Are they people who genuinely support you? Remind yourself that only your opinion has real power over your life.

3. Reframe, Let Go, and Move Forward

For each critical comment you’ve let hold you back, write down a positive affirmation or reminder of why your dreams and joy matter more. Then, let go of that weight by focusing on what makes you truly happy.

I’m sharing this with you because it’s time to take back your life. Words can hold us back, but only if we let them. If someone has said something that is still weighing you down, I invite you to look within and find the courage to release it.