This doesn’t mean to be a tyrant throughout all your social relationships in your life, but it does mean to always have a firm backbone and don’t be afraid to stick up for yourself. Nobody else will. If someone tries to manipulate you, don’t be afraid to respond firmly.

Before you know it, they’ll be gone and you’ll have regrets and then it will be too late. Tell your friends you care about them when they’re in front of you, you’ll never regret that.