Ignore the Haters

“So I never listen that, “You can’t.” I always listen to myself and say, “Yes, you can.” -Arnold Schwarzeneggar
“Never make someone a priority when all you are to them is an option” -Maya Angelou
“But, I say to you, Love your enemies, bless those cursing you, do good to those hating you, and pray for those accusing you falsely, and persecuting you” -Matthew 5:44
I have been rejected. Alot. I have experienced rejection over and over in my lifetime in many different social circles. I have been rejected by high school peers, jobs, customers, and girls I have tried to date. I tried so hard to gain their respect and acceptance, only to experience deeper disappointment. I used to think that these rejections were because of me! Maybe if I was a little more athletic, better looking, funnier, or suave, people would like me more. I tried so many different approaches and thought one would finally click without any success. I figured that if I kept trying, they would notice my efforts and finally give me a shot. It upset me to the core that people would not let me be a part of their lives, especially since I was trying so hard.
You will have people who doubt or criticize you no matter what you do. They may treat you negatively for a number of reasons. They may be jealous, close minded, or just flat out jerks. The bottom line is that they treat you negatively! You can call these people “haters”, “naysayers”, or even “doubters”. They expel negative energy through their words, actions, and behaviors. They put others down to look better and for their own twisted sense of enjoyment. If you sense someone is not invested in your life goals, ambitions, or journey, it is totally OKAY to cut them off from you entirely! The hardest part is realizing your friends, family, and colleagues could be dragging you down. Life is too short to allow negative people to effect any part of your life.
However, I have learned the truth that YOU will not click with everyone you come into contact with. Everyone has different standards, experiences, and perspectives. They pull from these thoughts they have to decide if they want to bring another person into their lives. In this day and age, we all have the idea that other people choose the circles we find ourselves in. We are placed in classes, groups, and friendships that seem out of our control. We just accept that belief and do our best to exist with the people placed in our vicinity. Truthfully, we have a choice with whom we involve in our lives. It is critical to befriend people who value you for who you are! The heights we fall or rise depend wholly on the people we rely on and spend the most time with. Would it make sense to choose a friend who never calls you or invites you to special events? Of course not! Then, why look for approval or admiration from others who won’t give you a second glance? You’re worth more than getting treated like that.
The more funny and ironic part is that I found myself in sales where rejection happens constantly. I still get nos! Maybe these rejections help me build up a thick skin. Or, it made me realize which people are worth fighting for. You see, the people who matter the most will make an effort to always raise you up in the good and bad times. They will make an effort to develop the mutual relationships between you just as much as you do. These are the people you want in your corner. They will support your change goals, whether it’s losing 20 pounds, quitting drinking, putting out a book, or starting your own business. And, they will be honest with you. Therefore, it is IMPERATIVE to choose those friends and family who BELIEVE in you and aid you in your goals. Never lose who you are as a person for a wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing. Leave the haters where they belong, behind. As Always, Eat, Move, and Improve!