Letter 30: Other People’s Narratives About You: Why They’re Not Your Responsibility

I read this quote from Sahil Bloom

My life improved dramatically when I realised that it's not my responsibility to change the narrative other people have about me. No matter what you do, there's going to be someone who doesn't like it. That's ok. Let them

The Weight of Others’ Narratives

So I got a call from my so called well wisher," Aabhinna do you know, that person was talking about you, he was saying, What work does ASK do? Koi kaam toh karta hi nahin.

For a minute, It just infuriated me, and I was so tempted to say, " What does he do, and what the hell he knows about my work." but then, I smiled & said

I smiled and said,........... read the context first before you get into the jist

Lets be honest, we all carry stories about ourselves, shaped by what others say and think. Maybe a colleague doesn’t like your approach, or a friend misinterprets your intentions. Suddenly, their narrative becomes something you feel obligated to fix.

But here’s the truth: it’s not your responsibility.

People’s perceptions are filtered through their own experiences, biases, and insecurities. Their opinion says more about them than it does about you.

You Can’t Control the Story

No matter how hard you try, you can’t control what others say or think. Even if you explain yourself endlessly or bend over backward to please everyone, someone will still misjudge you.

Instead of worrying about their story, ask yourself:

Are you proud of your actions? Do they align with your values? If the answer is yes, that’s all that matters.

What Truly Matters

What defines you isn’t how others see you—it’s how you see yourself. Focus on your character, your growth, and your goals. The people who truly matter will see you for who you are, not for who others paint you to be.

A Simple Reminder

The next time someone’s narrative about you weighs you down, pause and ask:

• Does this align with my truth?
• Is this worth my energy?

If the answer is no, let it go. Your job is to live authentically—not to manage other people’s perceptions.

Remember: What others think of you is their story. Who you are is yours. Protect your peace, stay true to your path, and let their narratives float away.

And to be honest, I said something that I believed in another quote " I am at a point in life when I no longer debate with an idiot, I just agree"

And hence I said

"Right :) "