The Spotlight Effect
We are all plagued by the idea that everybody around is constantly noticing us like a spotlight being shined hence the name for it: "The Spotlight Effect". Maybe you just did something embarrassing or you're diving into a new endeavor, everybody must be thinking about me, right? Actually, entirely wrong and it's amazing to know.
We forget that every person around us is dealing with their own Spotlight Effect, where they too believe that everybody cares so much about them. In reality, everybody is so busy worrying about themselves that they aren't actually noticing your every move.
So, stop letting this fear of social exclusion or embarrassment not let you go after what you want or do the things you enjoy. Nobody actually cares about you as much as you think. Even if they did, that shouldn't stop you. Be your authentic self. Do the things you want to do no matter what.
A popular example of the Spotlight Effect is making mistakes. As you strive for bigger and better things, mistakes will occur. Thousands of them and that's normal, and should be celebrated. Don't be self-conscious over them. If the people that you're scared will judge you aren't making any mistakes, that's really bad. They aren't somebody you should care about then.
Don't let the so-called spotlight paralyze you. Recognize it, realize you're overestimation of it's prominence. This realization will set you free allowing you to make mistakes, take risks, and be your authentic self without the fear of judgement. Life's an internal game, harness it.