Did someone cut you off on the freeway? Or did your bf of 2 years cheat on you? That must mean you're a doormat, and unattractive, right? Wrong! What other

people do says more about them than it says about you. What does speak volumes about you? Your reactions to the things others do.

Some people thrive on gossip, and indirectly learning all of the "juicy" details of other peoples' lives. All it takes is one gossip-happy friend to derail the best intentions, but for

you to live your best life, it's crucial to separate from the gossip, and be defined on your own terms by your own actions.

Sometimes criticism is mean, and other times it's actually eye opening and helpful. If you find that someone says something you don't agree with, but they claim to have good

intentions, give it a chance to resonate, and take it seriously- someone does feel this way to the point of having hurt feelings. Just one person's opinion might be worthy of consideration, respect, and letting

go of if needed.

At the end of the day, you have yourself, and your thoughts. If you're concerned about what's going on in someone else's head, you won't get anywhere. Alternatively, if you

decide that you are worthy of feeling great about yourself, regardless of what others think or don't think of you, you will have it made.

Sure, it would be nice if your mother or father approved of certain life choices of yours, or if your boss thought your project was as amazing as you do,

but these perceptions are not equivalent to your self worth. As long as you're living, breathing, and learning about and contributing your gifts, you're enough.

While it may be difficult to separate yourself, or think fondly of someone who has knowingly said or done mean things to you, know that they are hurting, and expressing

their hurt. They're trying to drag you down, but lucky for you, you'll only rise up, and you're more than happy to bring them with you, or leave them where

they choose to wallow.