When you don't belong to a group, criticism stops mattering

Thoughts on belonging and criticism, sparked by watching my kids navigate school life. As someone who left the corporate world to run a small eyewear shop, I've discovered something unexpected: when you're not part of a group, criticism loses its sting. While my children learn the complexities of fitting in at school, I'm learning the freedom that comes from stepping outside those circles. Some reflections on finding balance between community and individuality, and why sometimes the best response to criticism is simply "I see."