If people don't accept you for who you are...

If people take issue with who you are as a person despite the fact that you haven't done anything (that you know of) to deserve such behavior, it says more about them than you.

The worst cases are those where the person has a beef with you for some reason, but rather than come out and say it, they ignore or bad-mouth you behind your back.

It's these folks whom I characterize as cowardly and dishonest.

If they take exception to your liberal views, religious beliefs, choice of career, or range of hobbies, why not be truthful about it?

Perhaps the two of you were once close college buddies and over time, you've diverged in your tastes and lifestyle. As a result, your calls and texts seem to go unanswered now when that was never the case before.

Or maybe you only met recently at work or at the gym, but something about you rubs them the wrong way -- prompting the individual to avoid you or become visibly distant. 

It isn't a stretch to say that sometimes we mischaracterize people when we don't know them well. It's all too easy to make assumptions as of way of filling the gaps when we have little information to go by.

But, if after getting to know you well, someone still gives you the cold shoulder, don't let it get you down. Do not take it personally. 

It doesn't mean you should scramble to transform your personality in a way that appeases them. It does not mean abandoning your values, beliefs, and principles -- all the things that form your self-identity.

What it does mean is that they likely have certain deep-seated insecurities that need to be reckoned with. 

If the fact you're different from someone is quick to make them uncomfortable, maybe they need to reassess their views on fairness and judgment. You don't need someone like this in your life -- let them be, and move on.

If you spend your entire life trying to win everyone's approval, the irony is that you'll likely secure no one's. 

The superior alternative? Remaining true to yourself. Championing the very things that distinguish you from others. 

Because if a person is worth having around, they wouldn't want you to change in the first place. 

Rather than deeming you a threat, they see you as broadening their horizons. You don't necessarily have to agree with someone on everything to respect their character, sincerity, and work ethic.