When we let others control us by the threat of disapproval and rejection, we give up far too much of ourselves and make it impossible for us to engage in authentic relationships.

Rather than being taught to accept ourselves, we were trained to make ourselves socially acceptable. And whenever we fail, we suffer inside.

Say to yourself: 'Living essentially to please others is a monumental mistake.'

In the end, trying to be perfect is the unconscious social effort to please ourselves by pleasing these others.