In her book, The Art of Being, Susan C. Young reflects on her younger years, where her self-worth was heavily influenced by the opinions of those around her. She emphasizes how this reliance on external validation drained her energy and attention, as she constantly sought to gauge the feelings of others.

Young's insights encourage readers to consider the importance of developing inner confidence and self-acceptance rather than focusing on external approval. By optimizing one’s own presence and essence, individuals can create a more positive impact in their lives and the lives of others, freeing themselves from the constraints of others' judgments.