What to do when people fail to see your worth

A couple of readers I've corresponded with recently have lamented the fact that someone who means a great deal to them -- whether their partner, child, or friend -- is either giving them the cold shoulder or flat-out treating them like garbage.

Both are on bad terms because of a misunderstanding or argument of some sort; still, they've done their part to try and mend fences, but such efforts have proven fruitless.

Here's a quote I came across today that is quite apropos:

"Your value does not decrease based on someone's inability to see your worth." 

Put simply, just because one person fails to recognize the immense value you bring to their life doesn't mean others will make the same costly mistake. 

That one person's untoward behavior should not eclipse the high marks you receive from those who do appreciate you. 

Many people have a tendency to harp on the negative; they can't bear the thought of someone not liking them. 

But why seek anyone's approval to begin with?

Ultimately, your opinion about yourself is the only one that matters. No one has the right to judge you until they've stepped in your very shoes. 

If you've tried to clear the air and yet they seem intent on widening the rift between you two, it begs the question: Are you wasting your time?

One who refuses to acknowledge the good qualities in a friend or partner isn't much of a friend or partner at all. It betrays an air of arrogance that communicates only one thing: he or she is only interested in drawing attention to your perceived shortcomings rather than all the good things you've done for them. 

You have enough to worry about. The last thing you need is someone who takes you for granted and treats you poorly. Such people should be kicked out of our lives at once.

When you realize that you don't need anyone's validation to be happy, you couldn't care less what people think of you. It's at that point that you feel free and empowered. 

We all want to feel appreciated, but let's be honest: Some people just don't know what they have until they lose it. Sometimes it takes a painful lesson for them to realize that they were in the wrong all along.

No one can make you feel bad without your consent. Don't let one person have that much power over you. You deserve far better.