Isabella Chase
We all want to be surrounded by people who lift us up, not bring us down. But is that always the case?
I get it. Sometimes, we find ourselves stuck with people who make us feel bad about ourselves, for no good reason.
These individuals could be anyone – a friend, a partner, or even a family member. They have a knack for focusing on those areas in our lives where we are most vulnerable.
And sometimes, it can feel like we’re trapped in this toxic environment, constantly belittled and undervalued.
But hey, you’re not alone in this.
It’s a common experience for many of us to feel undervalued and disrespected by someone in our lives at some point or another.
Here’s the thing though – it may not have to be this way. You might be tolerating more negativity than you need to. Recognizing the signs isn’t always easy.
In this article, I’m going to share seven things that if someone makes you feel bad about, they’re probably not worth keeping in your life.
1) Your personal achievements
Let me take you back to a moment in my life. I had just received a promotion at work – something I had worked tirelessly for. But instead of being met with congratulations from a supposed close friend, I was met with snide remarks and belittling comments.
They made me feel as if my achievement was insignificant, or even undeserving.
Sounds familiar? If someone makes you feel bad about your achievements instead of being happy for you, it’s a clear sign they’re not worth keeping around. Achievements, big or small, are milestones that should be celebrated, not demeaned.
2) Your physical appearance
Now this one is personal. I’ve struggled with my body image for a long time. I used to have someone in my life who would constantly criticize the way I look – from my weight to my choice of clothes.
It took me a while to realize this, but no one has the right to make you feel bad about your physical appearance.
If someone constantly critiques your looks or body-shames you, it’s a red flag. Remember, your worth is not defined by your physical appearance but by who you are as a person. So don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.
3) Your past mistakes
We all make mistakes – it’s a part of being human. In fact, making mistakes is an integral part of learning and growth. Research showed that when we make mistakes and learn from them, it stimulates the growth of new neurons in our brain.
If you have someone in your life who constantly brings up your past mistakes, using them as a weapon to belittle or shame you, that’s not okay. It’s important to remember that our past does not define us.
Our mistakes are stepping stones on the path to becoming better versions of ourselves. Don’t let anyone use them against you.
4) Your dreams and aspirations
Every one of us has dreams – visions of what we want our future to look like. These dreams are the very essence of who we are, the compass that guides our lives. They may seem unrealistic to some, but they are yours, and that’s all that matters.
If someone consistently mocks or belittles your dreams, making you feel as if they’re unattainable or foolish, it can be incredibly disheartening.
Remember, your dreams are valid, regardless of how big or small they may seem. You have every right to chase after them with all your heart. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.
5) Your lifestyle choices
Living a vegan lifestyle has been one of my personal choices for a while now. It’s a decision that aligns with my beliefs and values. However, I used to have a friend who would continually mock me for it, making snide remarks at every meal we shared.
If you’ve ever experienced something similar, whether it’s about your dietary preferences, fashion style, or even your decision to not have children, know this – your lifestyle choices are yours to make.
If someone belittles you for living in a way that feels right to you, it’s more about them than it is about you. You deserve respect and understanding when it comes to your personal choices. You don’t need anyone in your life who doesn’t provide that.
6) Your financial status
Money is a touchy subject for many. But let me be clear: your worth is not defined by your bank balance. I’ve had my share of financial ups and downs, and I’ve had people judge me based on that.
Whether you’re rolling in dough or struggling to make ends meet, if someone makes you feel inferior because of your financial status, it’s time to reconsider their place in your life.
7) Your loved ones
Our relationships with our loved ones are deeply personal. I remember dating someone who had a problem with one of my closest friends. They couldn’t accept my friendship with them and constantly badmouthed them.
If someone you know tries to instigate issues between you and your loved ones, tries to isolate you, or makes you feel bad about the people you care about, that’s a major red flag. Never let anyone come between you and the people who truly care about you.
Prioritize your mental health above all else
Did you know that one in five adults in the U.S experience mental illness each year? Despite this prevalence, mental health is often overlooked and stigmatized.
I have dealt with anxiety for a long time, and I’ve had people dismiss it as overreacting or seeking attention. If someone belittles your mental health struggles or makes light of them, it’s a clear sign they’re not worth your time or energy.
Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your mental well-being over a toxic relationship. Surround yourself with people who understand and support you through your mental health journey.
