Many of us look a way that fits someone’s broad or narrow scope of a particular area. You could be minding your business in public until you’re asked if you have history in something based on your appearance.

If you do, it’s up to you whether you want to reveal that or not. If you don’t have history with the place in question, you’re also allowed to roll your eyes from being stereotyped for the millionth time.

When you don’t fit someone’s idea of a demographic that you’re uncomfortable with, they can either quietly accept your claim, or try to insult you for not following their script.

“Big for nothing,” “wasted talent,” “but you’re so (insert physical trait),” or “you’re missing out.” These are just a handful ones I know of. And to some agree I’ve been told.

Anyone bold or miseducated enough to tell you things like this are part of a system you were meant to be against, either on a small or large scale. It doesn’t matter if they are a stranger or even someone close. You know who you are and what you want to be for yourself, and for anyone else willing to listen and follow you.

If they want you to be shamed for not sitting with the “cool kids,” let them live the life a dissatisfied critic towards other people’s goals.

Sometimes these are people who gave up on their own, and felt it was easier to drag others down with them. Especially if you’ve chosen to not have people live vicariously through you in places you don’t want to be in, and not meant to be in.

Stick to your inner vision. Surround yourself with people that support it. Anyone that’s the opposite of that can keep up or keep away. It’s your life to life, not theirs to control.