This may seem insignificant to most, but I had an experience with food that made me feel the beauty and freedom that comes with maintaining standards and not settling for less.

There is this potato bowl that is served in my school's food court, as I'm ordering it, I notice that the potatoes are soggy, old, and cold looking. Still edible, but I noticed that there were some fresh ones being prepared. As he fixes my bowl, I ask him (after he is done putting the old potatoes and meat in the bowl) if I can have the fresh ones that are cooking. He laughs and tells his coworker that I want the new ones. I ask him if it's too late, he says yes. I notice that I have to ask him to confirm whether he will give me the fresh potatoes. He continues making my bowl.

I realize that I don't have to purchase the bowl, especially a bowl with cold potatoes. I tell him to cancel my order. He says dumbfounded, "you don't want this either?" I say "no, thank you" and immediately walk away. I'm still annoyed at the thought of his smugness when I asked for fresh potatoes, but it felt good to not put up with the nonsense.

TLDR; In many areas of life, people expect you to settle for less . One, so that they won't have to work harder. Two, because they don't think you deserve better. Ultimately though, the decision is in your hands and you don't have to listen to anyone. Maintain your standards.