Why I Don’t Care About Being Popular Anymore

In middle school, being popular felt like the most important thing in the world. I just wanted to fit in and be liked. I tried so hard to impress the “cool kids” and obsessed over my social media followers. But pursuing popularity made me utterly miserable.

I had low self-esteem and based my worth on external validation. I posted endless photos and memes seeking compliments and filtered my true self. I changed how I dressed, talked and acted to gain approval from others. But inside, I felt like a fraud.

My insecurity reached its peak after a falling out with friends’ in my freshman year. I realized the people I was trying so hard to impress didn’t really care about me. They only wanted me around when I provided entertainment or boosted their status.

In that dark time, I turned to food and gaming to cope. I stopped hanging out with people and isolated myself. My grades tanked. I thought my life was over without her.

But with the support of my mentors, I realized the truth: I was chasing shallow friendships. None of those people knew the real me. They didn’t care when I was hurting. They just wanted entertainment, not authentic connection.

I decided that I would rather have three real friends than 300 fake ones. I committed to embracing my true self, quirks and all. I invested in people who lifted me up as I was, not who I pretended to be. As actress Zendaya has said, “Don’t change or dim your light for anyone.”

Letting go of my obsession with popularity freed me. I no longer tie my self-worth to likes or followers. I focus on developing my talents, helping others, and deepening true bonds.

Here is my advice to teens who think being popular is #goals: Don’t believe the myth. Insecurity fuels the quest for popularity. You are enough as you are. Choose friends wisely. Show compassion. Pursue purpose, not passive approval. Your worth isn’t defined by your reputation. Focus inward, not outward.

The right people will appreciate the real, imperfect and quirky you. Release the burden of conformity. Celebrate your individuality. Spread kindness. Victory is living authentically. Self-love attracts belonging. Value substance over surface-level status.

Popularity fades, but your impact and principles endure. Blaze your own trail. The path to fulfillment starts from within.

Colton Fidelman is the author of the Book, The Teenage Guide to Success. Unlock the secret to teen success with ‘The TICK TOCK Formula’ – a modern compelling blend of ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens’ and the powerful insights of ‘Start with Why’. This book empowers teenagers to conquer challenges, fulfill their passions, and make a world-changing impact, guided by the wisdom of twenty remarkable trailblazers.


GET THE BOOK BY
ERIN FALCONER!

Erin shows overscheduled, overwhelmed women how to do less so that they can achieve more. Traditional productivity books—written by men—barely touch the tangle of cultural pressures that women feel when facing down a to-do list. How to Get Sh*t Done will teach you how to zero in on the three areas of your life where you want to excel, and then it will show you how to off-load, outsource, or just stop giving a damn about the rest.

52 Responses to Why I Don’t Care About Being Popular Anymore

  1. Richard J. Benjamin says:

    Images of cosmic foggy are very different from each other, Best Astrophotos of the week: exploring the significance behind space objects names – Orbital Today. These differences depend on the purpose of telescopic analysis and diversity of star formations that have their own characteristics.

  2. I am actually very grateful to the owner of this website for sharing this amazing article in this place

  3. David Smith says:

    Worth reading. Thanks for sharing.

  4. Avipsa says:

    हनुमान जी की भक्ति में एक महत्वपूर्ण स्थान है और उनके स्तोत्रों का पाठ हमें शक्ति और शांति प्रदान करता है। अगर आप भी इस विषय में अधिक जानकारी प्राप्त करना चाहते हैं, तो आप इस लिंक पर जा सकते हैं: यहां क्लिक करें और बजरंग बाण के बारे में विस्तार से जानें।

  5. Moana says:

    Whether you’re into tech, green energy, or the hottest new startup, Stockity lets you build a portfolio that matches your vibe. Invest in what matters to you and grow your wealth with ease

  6. mounikavcube says:

    Keep it up for more valuable information sharing with us. 
    click here for moreinformation

  7. john says:

    I find Qxbroker incredibly beginner-friendly. The interface is simple, and the demo account helped me get started without feeling overwhelmed.

  8. Jeremy says:

    Today’s crossword puzzle clue is: Narrator of The Book Thief crossword. We’ll attempt to find the correct answer for this specific clue.

  9. Rameys says:

    Dapatkan versi terbaru dari link WA GB dengan jaminan anti-larangan. Tingkatkan pengalaman perpesanan Anda dengan unduhan resmi ini.

  10. Mia Jackson says:

    Love tester games can provide a sense love tester of nostalgia for those who have fond memories of similar games from their childhood or teenage years.

  11. Jovany says:

    Great sharing, very impressive, thank you very much. fnf mods

  12. dramacool says:

    Dramacool | Watch Asian drama, Movies and Shows English Sub HD Without ads

  13. Terasa cu carti will be daily share multiple Turk series to viewers. All the latest guides share with you on a single click..!

  14. Quill says:

    Lots of impressive content experiences through diverse analytical articles. Attractive topics with new
    and creative content.

  15. obstacle says:

    It offers players an Geometry Dash exciting challenge where they must guide a square-shaped icon through various levels filled with obstacles, spikes, and tricky jumps—all synchronized to a fast-paced soundtrack.

  16. The language style is relaxed and humorous, making it stress-free to read. Useful information can be obtained in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. It’s hard not to like a blog like this.

  17. So much valuable content! Presenting views from various angles with clear logic. The blogger clearly has in-depth knowledge of the field.

  18. mbwhats says:

    This article offers a powerful and honest reflection on the struggle for popularity and the toll it can take on self-worth. Colton Fidelman’s message is an important reminder that genuine relationships and embracing your true self are far more fulfilling than chasing external validation. The advice to prioritize authenticity, kindness, and purpose is especially valuable in today’s social media-driven world. It’s refreshing to see a narrative that encourages teens to find their inner worth rather than relying on superficial approval. This piece is an inspiring guide for anyone navigating the pressures of adolescence. MBWhatsApp is a modified version of WhatsApp that offers enhanced customization and privacy features, allowing users to personalize themes, fonts, and colors, send larger files, schedule messages, and maintain greater control over their privacy settings.

  19. Shilo says:

    B9 Game is a popular online gaming platform in Pakistan, offering a diverse array of games such as fishing, and live sports. Players can enjoy games like Dragon Tiger, Andar Bahar, and Teen Patti, with opportunities to earn real money. The platform features a user-friendly interface, daily bonuses, and secure transactions through services like JazzCash and EasyPaisa. https://b9game.com.co/

  20. jani says:

    It’s not only about the graphics in 718SP Game; the game offers a range of exciting gameplay options, from action-filled adventures to strategic multiplayer modes. For further reading, check out this Online resource for more insights into the game’s features.

  21. Randm Vape says:

    Technology has changed the way people consume nicotine, making it more convenient and customizable than ever before. Modern devices now come with adjustable airflow, various nicotine strengths, and longer-lasting performance to suit different preferences. One example is the Randm Vape, a high-capacity disposable designed for extended use, featuring a powerful rechargeable battery and leak-proof design to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

    Unlike traditional cigarettes, which burn tobacco and produce harmful tar, these devices work by vaporizing liquid, reducing exposure to many toxic byproducts. However, while they eliminate combustion-related risks, they still contain nicotine, which can be addictive, making it essential for users to stay informed and make responsible choices.

  22. salim219 says:

    @ Incredibox game I understand what Colton says, but the fact is that in the modern world, fame opens up a lot of opportunities. Who doesn’t want to be noticed? Who doesn’t want to feel important? I agree that you shouldn’t lose yourself, but if fame has benefits, why not pursue it intelligently?

  23. btswiki.com says:

    Trending Video From btswiki.com

  24. Curve Rush says:

    It’s inspiring to hear how you prioritized genuine connections over chasing fleeting popularity. It sounds like you were on a real curve rush to find yourself, and it’s amazing you discovered what truly mattered.

  25. Rose says:

    I admire the maturity in this story — letting go of the need for external validation to find your true self is a brave agario and inspiring journey.

  26. Tanner says:

    Whether you’re a casual player or a serious competitor, BetPKR Game offers daily opportunities to win big and enjoy nonstop gaming excitement. https://betpkr.games/

  27. I appreciate the depth of research and clarity in your writing.

  28. snaptube apk says:

    snaptube is fast, free, and simple to use.

  29. El sitio cuenta con una interfaz muy sencilla de usar. https://calculadoraalicia.net/ Los botones están bien etiquetados y la navegación es clara, lo que permite que tanto niños como adultos puedan usarla sin problemas. No se requiere ningún conocimiento técnico para comenzar. Es tan fácil como ingresar los números y observar cómo se resuelve el problema automáticamente. Esta simplicidad hace que el aprendizaje sea natural y sin barreras.

  30. tiro al palo says:

    El fútbol es el alma de TiroAlPaloWeb.es. La plataforma ofrece resúmenes de partidos, análisis tácticos, y las últimas novedades de equipos y jugadores. También cubre competiciones internacionales y ligas locales, lo que permite a los usuarios estar al tanto de todo lo que ocurre en el mundo futbolístico. Desde la Champions League hasta partidos amistosos, Tiro al Palo lo narra todo con pasión. Es ideal para quienes no solo quieren saber el marcador, sino entender el contexto del juego. En resumen, es una web perfecta para vivir el fútbol como un verdadero hincha. https://tiroalpaloweb.es/

  31. Justin says:

    The desire for popularity is fueled by insecurity. As you are, you are sufficient. Make intelligent friend choices. Be kind. Seek meaning rather than merely receiving favor. Can someone help me find industrial pipe cleaning near me. Thanks!

  32. CelinaMorgan says:

    Popularity fades, but your impact and principles endure. unblockedgames-66ez.com

  33. Is there a day when you stop writing these articles? I wish I had time to discuss these articles with you. it’s amazing pretty Gaming

  34. walterliz says:

    What does being famous do for you? If it doesn’t really matter, we don’t care. And pay attention to geometry dash jump

  35. gimmytv says:

    Gimy | Watch Asian drama, Movies and Shows English Sub HD Without ads

  36. Chinaq says:

    So much valuable content! Presenting views from various angles with clear logic. The blogger clearly has in-depth knowledge of the field

  37. vidmate download is a media downloader and a complete entertainment station that contains all sorts of entertainment in one place. Now it can download anything including videos, audio files, apps, games, documents, movies, and much more.

  38. down vidmate says:

    down vidmate is a complete entertainment app and the most powerful video & audio downloader. You can download HD-quality movies, videos, shows, and video content from YouTube and other video platforms.

  39. vidmate update is the most complete multimedia app that has everything for all sorts of users with tons of content from thousands of platforms and websites. The app serves a variety of functions. It offers services from a video player to a video downloader.

  40. vidmate download vidmate​​​ is a secure app its APK file is 100% secure with our download button. It is a verified app file that is checked by our experts on CM Security & Mcafee to remove all security hazards. You can trust it.

  41. snaptube vidmate​​ is the ultimate source of downloading videos, allowing you to download videos and music in one place. Although websites and social apps are useful and provide many facilities, they do not have a proper system for downloading videos.

  42. Mialys says:

    I find it amazing! We really appreciate you providing us with this priceless data; your article is really excellent. More shares would be excellent. Play the redactle game online.

  43. Alvin says:

    There is growing awareness of the need to include Orang Asli and native Bornean cultures in mainstream media. Source

  44. outuvore says:

    A great golf game for honing accuracy and computation abilities is Golf Orbit. Players must decide on the proper angle and distance to drop the ball into the hole during the game, therefore enhancing their concentration abilities and control of shot force.

  45. Sarah Li says:

    It’s interesting how much pressure there is to be popular, especially in middle school. I used to think it was everything, but now I’m more into finding things I genuinely enjoy. I spend a lot of time exploring different hobbies and saw something about a chicken jockey clicker game the other day that looked like a fun way to unwind. It’s definitely more fulfilling than chasing likes.

  46. Que vous soyez en randonnée, en voiture ou tout simplement curieux, notre Boussole online vous permet de connaître votre orientation en temps réel, où que vous soyez ! Plus besoin d’application – ouvrez simplement notre page et orientez-vous en quelques secondes.

  47. David says:

    The battle that ragdoll hit presents is challenging with many opponents.

  48. This is a really insightful article. It reminds me of a time when I felt like I was going through a sprunki phase, trying to be someone I wasn’t to fit in. It’s so important to focus on genuine connections and self-acceptance instead.

  49. This post really resonated with me. It’s refreshing to see someone openly embrace authenticity over approval. In today’s social media-driven world, it’s easy to get caught up in likes, followers, and external validation. But as you pointed out, chasing popularity often leads us away from who we truly are. Choosing peace, purpose, and self-respect is far more empowering. Thank you for sharing your experience—it’s a powerful reminder to prioritize meaning over metrics.
    Digital Marketing Course In Hyderabad

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.