There was a time when I believed that the expression: “Good for you!” sounded like a total diss. A way of blowing off recognition of the accomplishments of myself or another. Upon reflection, “Feeling a bit sensitive and insecure?” is what I would ask my younger self if I had the opportunity to coach her. Let me tell you why.
Age has taught me that what is good for you may not be good for me and vice versa. That’s a fact.
Choices that are good for us individually, may at times have nothing to do with what might be good for another. This doesn’t make them good or bad, right or wrong. It simply means they are indications of preferences of what one might like versus what another might like. What we want might not appeal to others at all. What we feel may be feelings that others do not understand nor relate to. Directions we want to move in might be incomprehensible to another. Desires to learn something in particular, may be of zero interest to another.
“Good for you” is simply that. What is good for you, is good for you. No awestruck adulation or validation is necessary from others when we share our ideas, accomplishments, thoughts or plans.
Be honest: We don’t always relate personally to what others share or are excited about. But we can sincerely respond: Good for you. I’m happy this is making you happy.
Genuinely feeling this way is good for you.
I’m Dian Griesel, Ph.D. aka @SilverDisobedience I am a perception analyst, hypnotherapist, author of 15 books and a creative who works both sides of the camera. For 30 years I have helped my clients to achieve greater understanding as to how perceptions impact everything we do whether personally or professionally. Text to book an appointment: 212-825-3210
I share inspiring and actionable ideas for free via my podcast, on my website: DianGriesel.com and also on my social media accounts which you might like to follow.
