How do I stop feeling like I need everyone to like me?

The desperate need for everyone to like you is exhausting and ultimately impossible, yet it drives many people to constantly monitor others' reactions and adjust their behavior to avoid any hint of disapproval. This pattern often develops from childhood experiences where love felt conditional on being 'good' or pleasing others, leading you to believe that rejection means you're fundamentally flawed. You might find yourself agreeing with opinions you don't share, laughing at jokes you don't find funny, or avoiding expressing your true thoughts and feelings for fearful feelings of creating conflict or disappointment. The irony is that trying to be liked by everyone often makes you less likeable because people can sense the inauthenticity and may lose respect for someone who never stands for anything. The truth is that it's impossible and unnecessary for everyone to like you - even the most beloved people in history had detractors. What matters more is being genuinely liked by people who know and appreciate your authentic self. Start by identifying your core values and practicing expressing them, even when others might disagree. Notice that when you're authentic, you attract people who genuinely connect with who you are rather than a performance you're putting on. Remember that someone not liking you doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you - it might just mean you're not compatible, and that's perfectly normal. Focus on building deeper Interpersonal relationship with people who appreciate your true self rather than trying to maintain superficial approval from everyone you meet.