Why Friends and Family Don’t Support You

By Jason T Walters

A small band performing on stage to an empty audience — a metaphor for proximity bias and being overlooked despite showing up and sharing your work.

The Quiet Pain of Being Overlooked

Have you ever created something you’re proud of and not received any support from the people in your circle? It can be a real bummer when strangers seem to support you more than your own friends. Maybe you’ve been in a band and struggled to get people you know to show up to a gig — or tried to share a project you’ve been working hard on, only to hear something negative or dismissive that rattles your confidence.

You might post something on social media about it and then… crickets. It can be frustrating. And while that negative voice in your brain might whisper, “Maybe I just suck,” the truth is, it’s probably not that deep. Let’s call this: Familiarity Devaluation — when people close to you don’t really see what you’re building, simply because they’re used to you.

Don’t take it personal

The truth is, you don’t need validation from your circle. Let your work find its people – and more often than not, they’re beyond the ones you already know.


Keep showing up for yourself. When you’re on the path of greatness, you’re always growing and that often means, outgrowing old mirrors. You’re not living your Dharma for applause, you’re creating an exceptional life. The people meant for your message will find it. Your path is one of perseverance and steady forward movement. Walk it with an indomitable spirit. That’s enough. ✌️

If this spoke to you, you might enjoy my short books on mindset and self-mastery
Self-Mastery Through Discipline
Manifest Through Action
Becoming a Teacher: The Art of Inspiring Yoga
They’re quick and easy reads with lasting impact.
Also, check out my recent post “I Am: The Power of Affirmations” and “Breaking the NPC Loop

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