WALLACE X “You’ll worry less about what people think about you when you realize how seldom they do”

 A

The quote you're referring to—“You’ll worry less about what people think about you when you realize how seldom they do”—is often attributed to David Foster Wallace. It's a succinct reflection on the human tendency toward self-consciousness and the reality that others are typically preoccupied with their own concerns.(The Lesser of Two Equals)

This line appears in Wallace's novel Infinite Jest, published in 1996. In the book, it is part of a larger passage that delves into themes of human vulnerability, the nature of kindness, and the challenges of self-awareness. The full context reads:(A-Z Quotes, The Lesser of Two Equals)

“That sometimes human beings have to just sit in one place and, like, hurt. That you will become way less concerned with what other people think of you when you realize how seldom they do. That there is such a thing as raw, unalloyed, agendaless kindness. That it is possible to fall asleep during an anxiety attack. That concentrating on anything is very hard work.” (Goodreads)

This passage reflects Wallace's exploration of the complexities of human experience, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and the often-overlooked kindness that exists in the world.(bookoblivion.com)

While this quote is widely attributed to Wallace, it's worth noting that similar sentiments have been expressed by various thinkers over time. For instance, a version of this idea is also attributed to Richard Feynman, the renowned physicist, though the exact wording differs. The essence remains the same: a reminder that our anxieties about others' perceptions are often exaggerated.

In essence, this quote serves as a gentle nudge to focus less on the imagined judgments of others and more on living authentically and with kindness.