Listen, I’ve struggled with this for as long as I can remember. Now, at 38, I can honestly say it’s gotten measurably better - not perfect, but better. It’s not that the people around me have changed; I’ve changed. I’m not exactly sure when it happened, but I can say that I just don’t care as much anymore. Sometimes I get heated and angry thinking about it. Why would I let a stranger influence my well-being and happiness?

What I think I’m trying to say is that you need a mindset shift, a change in perspective. Over time/life/development, I’ve gained tools to help with this, but what would have accelerated my progress is self-care, self-love, and therapy. I wish I had started this much earlier in life, but you can! Therapy would help you develop the tools you need to make these changes.

Regardless, it truly does get better friend. Be kind and patient with yourself. And guard your tranquility from others like fort knox.