Who cares if you’re liked?

Dear Future Critter,

Past Critter here. If you’re reading this, you’re worried someone doesn’t like you. Maybe you gave them some tough feedback. Maybe you changed something that upset them. Whatever it is.

Here’s the thing: who freaking cares? Being liked is overrated, and it’s not one of your values. Growth and joy, buddy. That’s it. Chances are, there’s growth in whatever you’re doing that’s upsetting people. And as for joy, detach it from the emotions of others. Your joy is yours, not someone else’s, you idiot.

I know what you’re going to say: “But being liked is useful! It makes it easier to get things done!” Boo flipping hoo. You know what makes it hard to get things done? I’ll tell you: not doing things at all because you’re scared people won’t like them.

Suck it up, buttercup. Being liked is a trap, so put on your big boy britches and muster up the courage to be disliked. The history books will see what you accomplished even if the daily news thinks you’re a tool.

Love and smooches,
Past Critter