“When someone treats you like they don’t care, believe them.” - Unknown

Personally, I try my best to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. I like to believe that at the core, humans are kind and generous, with good intentions. With most people, I’ve been right. I’ve met the most fearless, selfless and inspiring individuals and am lucky enough to call some of them my best friends. But I would be lying if I said there were certain people who’ve come into my life that haven't proven me wrong. I've learned that there is only so much slack you can cut someone, and so much time you can give them until their actions weigh heavier than their words. I’ve come to understand that if you constantly feel like you are a distraction, annoyance, or burden in someone’s life, that’s when there is no reason for them to be in yours anymore. If a person cares about you, they will manage to show you how they feel, not just shower you with empty compliments and promises. You have to understand that if you let it get too far, there will come a time that caring for these people will cause you to lose a sense of yourself. It happens when you continue trying to give them the benefit of the doubt, but before you know it, you’re changing how you look, act and even feel in an attempt to make yourself more valuable to them. You wait around for a text on your phone or a knock on your door because you’ll take whatever you can get from them. When did you become an object for them to mold? You are worth so much more than that. So if you get to this point, pick yourself up, brush yourself off and figure out who you really are and what you really want. Start caring more about yourself than about the people who don’t care about you. Stop trying to please these people in your life, and dismiss your thinking that they are the ones who validate you as a person. Instead, zero in on the kinds of people who bring out the best in you. That is where you’ll find true happiness. Focus on the people who make you laugh until you cry and who fill you with joy and peace when you’re around them. And don’t stop giving people the benefit of the doubt, because most of the time, they deserve it. But never compromise your value, your vulnerability, or your heart for someone who won’t appreciate it. It’s much easier said than done, and knowing where to draw the line is always the hardest part. It feels like a battle between being naïve and foolish or completely closed off. But in these moments, trust yourself and your instincts. Follow your heart and take the advice of the people who have your best interest in mind and who love you for who you are. And don’t ever forget to love yourself, because you deserve to be your own biggest fan.