The Forty Rules of Love

by Elif Shafak

Because you are so desperate to win the approval of others, you’ll never get rid of their criticisms, no matter how hard you try.”

If you want to change the way others treat you, you should first change the way you treat yourself. Unless you learn to love yourself, fully and sincerely, there is no way you can be loved. Once you achieve that stage, however, be thankful for every thorn that others might throw at you. It is a sign that you will soon be showered in roses.”