It has always been a goal of mine to have people like me and to keep them happy with me at all times.

I would go above and beyond with smiles, compliments, well wishes and anything else I could do to make them appreciate me. The only thing is that sometimes, people don’t always see what you are doing for them and don’t appreciate it. Other times, they clearly see what all you do for them and take advantage of you. That is not ok.

I’ve had multiple experiences where people have tried to take advantage of my willingness to go above and beyond for others. It got to a point to where I was so incredible unhappy, so something had to change.

No longer do I let people walk all over me. Yes, I am still nice and courteous to those around me, but I know now when not to be for certain people. It is when those who do not appreciate me or take advantage of me, that is when I am not nice.

I treat people in my life like I do at my retail job. I don’t ever think there is an excuse to not be nice to someone. So to any new person in my life or that comes into my place of work, they are always greeted with a smile and my undivided attention should they need anything. When it comes time that they need something, it is all about how they ask and treat me. I am going to go out of my way to please a friend or customer who asks nicely and shows gratitude for my help.

Whereas, if a customer tells me to go find something for them with no please or thank you or if a friend just expects me to do something for them, they will get the bare minimum. However, some friends, like customers, know exactly what they want and only come to you when necessary. In this case, it is when the customer is checking out and I ask them if they are having a good day. Most customers simply reply with good or its been alright. It is the customer who asks me back the same question or says thank you for asking, that really shows appreciation and respect for me. In terms of friendship, a friend might come to you to unload what is on their heart and mind and you show sincerity and your attention to their concerns, but when they don’t bother to ask about yours that you realize how much they value you versus what you can do for them.

Don’t think for a second that just because I am nice to most everyone that I have any problem standing up for myself when it comes time. I will flat out tell you how it is and put you in your place. There is never a reason to be mean, but also there is never a reason to let someone blatantly disrespect you. If standing up for myself doesn’t fix the problem, then that person is simply cut out of my life. Life is too short to waste time and energy on people who don’t need or deserve what you have to offer.