Do you fear rejection?

Hey friend, do you fear rejection?

Do you care what other people think of you? Do you let fear of rejection influence your decisions?

I’ve always thought of myself as someone who doesn’t care.

I always thought I was fairly “confident” in myself, and didn’t need to seek others approval or validation. But the hard truth is that I was avoiding caring about what other people thought, so I wouldn’t have to risk feeling that rejection.

I’ve connected with so many of you amazing people. I’ve learned so much about myself. I’ve realized that I want to share more and have more to offer than food and recipes alone… Muffins and kale aren’t quite cutting it anymore.

Spending the last year sending these Brain Food emails has really been an inspiring experience for me.

I’ve started trying to weave this authentic experience into my other content beyond weekly emails… but it’s so hard. It’s hard not to be scared of being rejected.

Because putting myself out there to the world, rather than just my food or recipes, means that the rejection can feel more personal. If someone doesn’t like what I share, it feels like they aren’t just rejecting my food or diet or recipe—it feels like they’re rejecting me as a person.

Of course, this is not the case necessarily. No one is liked by everyone, right?

So why do so many of us get stuck trying to be that? Why is that rejection so scary?

“You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be somebody who hates peaches.” 
― Dita Von Teese

I’ve come to terms with the fact that I do actually care what other people think, and I think it’s good to care—depending on who it is you’re caring about.

I’m not trying to avoid or to people-please out of fear of rejection—I’m trying to show up and put myself out there so I can connect with the people that want to connect with me.

I have met and connected with so many of you beautiful people in this community because our thoughts and feelings align—you are my peaches! And I am yours.

I want more of that. Less muffins. Less kale. More peaches.

Some people aren’t about peaches. Some people think apples are the superior fruit. I’d say they’re awry, but who am I to judge? It’s not my business if they prefer apples or peaches. I can’t control their rejection.

They can like what they like. But I’m not trying to please apples. I’m not trying to please anyone—other than my peachy self!

I’m seeing it all a little more clearly, now. If I keep trying to show up in a way that feels true to me, then those of you who want to stick around will (where my peaches at?). And those of you who don’t (apples), won’t.

I love and appreciate you either way!

I am so grateful for every person in this Brain Food community every single day. You’ve given me the courage to share my exploration and stay curious. You comfort me, encourage me, challenge me, share with me, and hear me out.

I write these emails to you friend, but of course I’m also really writing to myself. Thanks for listening! I will always love my peaches; but apples aren’t so bad either.

Sending light and love your way,
Alyssia