What will people say?

When I moved to my village, I started looking for business oppurtunity in the region. There were many option available but I chosed to open a "juice and shake" center. I was in habbit of drinking juice but there no juice shops in the market. There were many fast food restaurant and food joints but unable to find a juice and shake counter. This prompted me to design the blue print of the business. No body in my family and in my relation were in business, so I am the one who was trying the initiative. I figured out everything, and then consulted the same with elders of the family and relatives (as i am living in a joint home) discussing and permission is ominent. The first reaction of most of them is what will people say?

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“What will people say” *is a social stereotype. A very generalized and oversimplified notion that refers to anxiety about comments and judgments made by others . It is the fear of what people will say about your actions or choices, and this anxiety often leads a person to limit their actions or choices to conform to social norms. It's a stereotype because it's a generalized assumption about a group of people (whatever "people" may be) that dictates what they will think of us.

“What will people say” is quite a popular stereotype that many middle class family has to go through in India. In my case, doing business by opening a shop in hush busy market is not considered good. This will put the family presitge and repect in line within the community. As said we have a reputed family with many holding some prestigious poistion in the Government sector or in big companies. Opening a shop and that too of juice and shakes does not goes good with the family reputation and thereby I had to leave out from the business option. This is not the first time I had faced the situation, such situation did crops up multiple times since my childhood. This is very common to most of the middle class families in India. Our decision and outcome is lot depends upon the public sentiments. And their area of interest were placed ahead of our interest and choices. From food yo cloth to lifestyle, middle class family always have to suffer.

The middle class's preoccupation with "what people will say" is a complex issue influenced by social, economic, and psychological factors. It reflects a desire for social acceptance and a fear of negative judgment, often compounded by the pressures of maintaining a perceived social status. The middle class's concern about what others think stems from a desire to maintain or improve their social standing and avoid negative perceptions. The middle class often finds itself caught between the perceived freedom of the wealthy and the perceived security of the lower classes, leading to a heightened awareness of social expectations. The fear of being judged can influence their choices in terms of fashion, housing, leisure activities, and even career paths. And this is what proved hurdle in my career paths. I did share my business idea to someone, who does not have societal concern and invested money. I prefered to be a business partner rather than business owner.

In this situation, I managed to convince my family. They have a good mindset and understand the situation they supported me but when it comes to communities and that too after living in a traditional orthodox village, they never allow me to pursue. I am sure there won't be any hurdle, if I have to set up such business in any big cities. People in there are not concerned about others like we have in our village. Having a modern Outlook to life I did not find any issue but considering the aged parents sentiments I have to gave up. Sometimes it is good to take action in support of family interest. Such situation does taught me a new experince of living in villages. It was a learning curve and I never indulge in any such activities. For sure once I goes out, I will get more freedom to choose what I want to do. For the time being silent is a good option.

In good faith - Peace!!

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