Respect yourself.

Everyone knows those people who stick up for themselves no matter what. We look at them with respect because they respect themselves. If you want to become one of the people who stand up for what they believe is right, you must first respect yourself.

1. Accept the irritating things about other people.
   When something about someone else annoys you, think about why. Does it remind you of yourself or someone else? Do you feel threatened by it? Ask yourself questions like this and understand why you find things irritating in the first place.

2. Stop being bothered by the irritating things other people do or say.
   Ask yourself, “Who do I need to be for this situation not to bother me?” and, “Can I let this one go?” Do you need to be less rigid or more cheerful about the situation, or is it better to just drop it entirely?

3. Don’t be an enabler.
   If you’re truly helping someone, you’ll feel good about yourself. If you’re enabling them, you’ll feel heavy, depressed, and even resentful. Don’t bail others out; let them save themselves.

4. Cut toxic people out of your life.
   Remember, by doing this, you’re being nice to yourself, not mean to them. Limit your conversations with them, let them know that the relationship isn’t working for you, and tell them you have to end it.