stop taking things personally
We can't control what others say, but we can always control how we react. Taking offense doesn't help, it only holds you back. Remember, something only becomes a big deal when you make it one in your mind. When someone says something rude, avoid the instinct to think, "How dare they say that to me?" That's your ego talking. When you get upset and wonder how they dared to say something against you, it's often because you view yourself as untouchable. The truth is, everyone is going through their own struggles. Sometimes people's tongues slip, or maybe they're just rude, but don't let their behavior become your excuse to do something harmful.
Wrong actions are wrong, even if everyone is doing them, and right actions are right, even if nobody is. Discard negative thoughts toward others and, instead, build positivity within yourself. Be like the sun, shine through the stormy clouds with warmth and light.
When someone says something hurtful, try giving them the benefit of the doubt. Seek clarification before jumping to conclusions. Often, people don't mean what they say. And even if they do, remember that they might be dealing with their own issues and displacing that anger onto you. Don't lower yourself to their level of negativity. Whether holding onto hateful thoughts or expressing them out loud, it's a waste of your energy. Instead of clinging to that negativity, use your power for something positive, love yourself and lift yourself up.
One way to shield yourself from the impact of others' words is by building your own self-confidence. Find ways to boost your confidence through exercise, academic achievements, or pursuing passions that matter to you. When you feel secure in who you are, you're wearing an invisible armor that protects you from the negative words or actions of others. This confidence becomes your power, allowing you to control your reactions.
If you find it hard to ignore what others say, consider addressing the issue directly, especially with people you care about. Open up a conversation and ask why they said what they said. See if you can come to an understanding or a compromise so it doesn't happen again. This approach works well with those close to you, as they're more likely to be receptive when you assert yourself and express how you feel.
We're all living our own lives, facing our own challenges. Sometimes, people make mistakes or act out of character, but that doesn't mean you need to join them in a cycle of negativity. When you feel that familiar frustration bubbling up, step back and ask yourself if it's worth your peace of mind. Most of the time, you'll realize that holding onto a grudge or engaging in back-and-forth arguments wastes time and energy.
At our core, I believe all humans are inherently good. There's nothing more comforting than finding your own inner peace. It's not just an abstract idea, it's something you can achieve and use as a motivation to live a better life. Let go of your ego and live with a contagious smile that makes others want to be around you. Let's leave the world better than we found it.
P.S. This letter is for me more than anyone else. Taking things personally has been at the heart of most conflicts in my life, making me miserable. I'm learning to let go, for my own sake and because I've realized it's not about being right. It's about achieving what I truly want, and for me, that's inner peace.
