Choose your rooms
Go where you're liked, not tolerated.
It's one of my core principles. At some point, we've all ended up in groups where our presence wasn't really enjoyed — just tolerated. People didn't push us out, but they didn't pull us in either.
This principle is about breaking that pattern. And it starts with accepting something simple: if someone doesn't like you or doesn't enjoy your company, that's okay. You don't need everyone to like you. And you don't have to keep spending your time with people who don't.
The people-pleasing trap
Society has been really good at creating people who value pleasing others over respecting themselves. That's not a healthy pattern. If you try to please everybody, you end up pleasing no one — not even yourself.
One important distinction
This isn't about avoiding anyone who disagrees with you or challenges you. The people who push you to grow are often the ones who like you most. Being tolerated isn't about friction — it's about not being wanted.
Know where you stand
Be true to yourself. Know your values, know your principles, and know where you stand. The right people will find you there.
And remember: if someone doesn't like you, it's okay.
Have you ever been somewhere you were only tolerated — and what made you leave?