The world is full of naysayers. There’s always someone trying to bring you down. Many of them are trying to be helpful, but it doesn’t feel that way. If you allow naysayers to discourage you, your life will be much less than you deserve. Learn how to deal with these negative people so you can start living your best life.

Here are some strategies to help overcome the naysayers in your life:

1.      Keep your aspirations to yourself. It’s commonly suggested that you make your goals public. The fear of embarrassing yourself is supposed to be motivating. But several studies have shown that announcing your goals isn’t always a good strategy. The bigger your goals, the more likely you are to receive negative comments. If you’re sensitive to the criticism of others, this type of feedback can thwart your efforts.

Of course, you can celebrate your victory with everyone when you’ve accomplished your goal!

2.      Remind yourself of your positive qualities. If you’re starting to doubt yourself, remind yourself of your best qualities. Make a long list and focus on it until you’re feeling capable again. If you need help, get help from a supportive friend.

3.      Don’t take it personally. When others are unnecessarily negative, it reveals more about them than it does about you. No one knows enough about your personal business to have an accurate opinion anyway. So just let it roll off your shoulder.

4.      Keep your vision in mind. It’s easy to become discouraged when you’re on the receiving end of discouraging comments. Go back to the big picture and remind yourself of your goals. See in your mind how great the results will be and imagine how satisfying it will be when you’re proven right. Nothing is quite as sweet.

5.      Consider the source of the feedback. Are you trying to launch your own company? Criticism from someone that’s always had a corporate job isn’t valid. Unless the other person has accomplished your goal, consider their advice worthless. You wouldn’t take stock tips from a man living on a park bench. Most of the advice we receive is similar in value. However, a mentor can be a valuable addition to your life. The right mentor will have accomplished your goal. Perhaps they even started from a similar point as you. Ideally, they’ll also be supportive and encouraging.

6.      Make a list of your greatest achievements. Write down every experience you’ve had that makes you feel successful. You’ve already done some amazing things. The naysayers in your life don’t know about most of those things. That’s just another reason why their opinions are irrelevant.

7.      Learn to ignore the noise. Have faith in yourself and don’t let others control your thoughts or emotions.

8.      Smile. When you show others that you won’t be affected by their unkind words, they’ll eventually stop. Smiling will also improve your mood and lower your blood pressure. And, it’s free.

9.      Rely on supportive people. We all have that friend that seems to think we can do anything. Instead of dealing with the naysayers, surround yourself with people that support your efforts and believe in you. The difference is staggering.

The naysayers will always be there. Every great achievement was preceded by numerous naysayers giving their two cents. You can’t allow others to derail your plans. Be confident that you can accomplish anything. Project your success into the future and remind yourself of your past successes.