It's painful to think about but I sometimes think if I stopped caring about other people's opinions and stand up for myself and put myself first, I would stop getting hurt. It's hard. Now this can apply to any situation whether at work or while dating. I don't know if it's because I'm a woman and was socialized this way or maybe it's really just low self esteem and bullying.

I remember in highschool feeling I had to be really nice so people would like me. Of course that didn't stop the bullying and trash talk behind my back by people I didn't even know. I am trying to work against this mindset. I've almost gotten myself into trouble at work because of being a pushover and a doormat.

I'm just tired of dealing with people getting mad when I stand my ground. It sucks to have men try to gaslight me or make me out to be a bitch.

Just remember nothing is holding you back but you. I feel angry when I think of all the times someone has disrespected me and I did nothing. Even then I still struggle with this today. The only that has helped is actually socializing with people and seeing women be strong and not afraid to be a "bitch" even when they are not.