A big part of growing older is learning what matters to you...and if it's the opinion of others about you, then it's time you shed that.
Yes, there's a healthy amount of caring to be done there. You shouldn't treat people disrespectfully just because you don't care what others think.
BUT, with that said, it's also important to know who you are. Self-esteem is such a gift because without it, you might begin to believe how other people see you. And they're never going to see you for you because only you are you... makes sense?
So, if you do not build that foundation for yourself — a foundation where you know who you are and what you can offer to the world — then you will be prepared for those people who will put you down, label you, or try to emotionally manipulate you into doing things that your heart does not want to do. This goes for friendships and relationships.
Simply put, if you know who you are, those labels won't change you. They'll just fall to the ground, crumbling around your self-esteem bubble made of steel because you're just.that.strong.
And for those people, no matter what you can offer and no matter how strong you are in your own individuality, you will never be enough. You can be the best friend, daughter, son, girlfriend, boyfriend, employee — anything.
But you will still be labeled by some of the people on the other side of that relationship. They will make you feel like you and what you are capable of...is not enough. You can do everything in the world for them...and they STILL won't be satisfied.
And that's okay.
Why?
Because you realize, then, those people are not worthy of your time or your frustration. Your foundation is so strong, they can't shake it.
And so, you cut these people out. Or if you know they just are oblivious to how they are treating you, be strong enough to communicate and let them know that how they are treating you isn't okay.
Regardless, what I'm trying to say is...
You
Are
Enough.
If you know that and believe that, the world can't touch you with their labels. <3