Written by Chris Josh
It hurts in a way that's hard to explain.
You finally do something good for a loved one.
You're proud; you can't wait to share it.
And then - the people you love just... go quiet.
No excitement. No "I'm proud of you."
Even worse, maybe they even change the subject.
Here's what to do if and when that happens again.
First, feel it. Don't pretend it didn't sting. It did. And that's okay - it happened.
Second, don't beg for it. Asking someone to be excited for you only makes it hurt more. Their reaction is about them, not about your worth.
Always remember that.
Third, find your real people. Somewhere in your environment or even online, there are people who light up when you win.
Tell them your good news. Let them celebrate you.
Fourth, celebrate yourself. Don't wait for permission to be proud. Say it out loud. "I did that. I'm proud of me."
You don't need everyone to clap for you.
You just need to keep going and celebrate your own wins, even when no one else is around to clap for you.