Don’t Be Afraid to Be Considered a Little “Extra”

Embracing the “Extra” Within

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in life is that it’s completely okay to be a little “extra.” Of course, everything in moderation (don’t be totally financially irresponsible!), but if something truly brings you joy, fulfillment, or purpose — never allow someone else’s opinion to dim your light.

If you love decorating your home for every season — do it.
If throwing over-the-top themed parties makes you happy — go all out.
If solo travel or planning a massive group trip excites you — make it happen.

The way you choose to live your life shouldn’t be limited by someone else’s comfort zone.

Owning My “Extra” Side

[Image Placeholder: Candid photo of Crista setting up a party table or arranging gifts]

I’ve been called “extra,” “over the top,” and “extravagant” by friends, family, even my husband — and honestly, I love it.

For a long time, I hid that part of myself because the world told me I was “too much.” I muted my energy, dimmed my light, and tried to fit into a box labeled “normal.”

But here’s the truth: that made me miserable.

It wasn’t until I decided to take full control of my life — and stop caring about what others thought — that I found my happiness again. I began living authentically, saying yes to the things that brought me joy, and rediscovering the confident, creative, and passionate version of myself that had been waiting to shine.

The Fear of Judgment — and Why You Should Ignore It

We live in a world where people are judged whether they do too much or not enough.
You plan an elaborate event, and someone will say you’re “trying too hard.”
You keep it simple, and someone else will whisper that you “didn’t try at all.”

You see, no matter what you do — you’ll always be judged by someone.

Once you accept that, it becomes easy to make the choice to live authentically. Why dim your light when you’ll be judged either way? You might as well live boldly, joyfully, and unapologetically as you.

Not Everyone Will Understand You — and That’s Okay

[Image Placeholder: Crista journaling or reflecting at a cozy spot]

Even those closest to you — parents, partners, or friends — can unintentionally hold you back. It’s not always out of malice; sometimes it’s fear, protection, or even jealousy.

Parents worry about your safety.
Partners think about how your decisions affect them.
Friends may view your courage or confidence through their own insecurities.

We are all wired with self-interest to some degree, and that often shapes how others perceive your choices. Once you realize this, you’ll stop seeking approval from people who are viewing your life through their own filter.

So here’s the truth: You’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t.
That means the only person you should be making decisions for — is yourself.

Be Extra. Be You.

[Image Placeholder: Crista confidently walking outdoors, looking joyful and free]

If being “extra” makes you happy — then own it. Be bold in your choices. Give thoughtful gifts just because. Start that new business. Travel alone. Throw the elaborate party.

The world doesn’t need less of you — it needs the real you.

You are not required to justify your happiness or tone down your sparkle to make others comfortable. At the end of the day, their opinions fade — but your joy, authenticity, and confidence stay with you forever.

Final Thoughts

So go ahead — live loudly, love deeply, decorate excessively, and embrace the beautiful chaos that makes you who you are.

Because being “a little extra” isn’t a flaw — it’s your superpower.