Branwyn
I'm a Heartless Bitch because I believe respect is not an automatic entitlement; it's something that has to be earned. I don't automatically follow the "rule" of respecting my elders, teachers, political leaders, or religious figures. I don't believe I'm anti-authoritarian, although I'm sometimes viewed as such, I just insist that someone display respectable traits such as wisdom, honor, and truthfulness, before I will agree to respect them. I feel that when "respect" is something that is automatically conferred with an office, or a title, or when someone reaches a certain age, then the term respect becomes somewhat meaningless.
I hold myself to the same standard. My sense of self-worth, my self-r-e-s-p-e-c-t (sorry, couldn't resist the Aretha reference), is derived from how well I meet the goals and standards I have set for myself. Maintaining my self-respect is a conscious choice I make every day by setting goals for myself and maintaining my personal standards of conduct and decency.
I'm a Heartless Bitch because I determine the direction of my life, I work to attain success, and I'm willing to accept the responsibility for my successes and my failures. I don't expect perfection from myself or from those around me, however, since I attempt to be constantly improving my circumstances, I expect the same of the people I deal with. I admit to my failures, but I refuse to let them be used against me as guilt trips and manipulation.
Which brings me to the final reason I feel I qualify as a Heartless Bitch. I refuse to be involved in manipulative relationships, romantic or otherwise. I'm a straightforward person who is not afraid of confrontation. I prefer, in fact I insist on, solving interpersonal problems directly with the people involved. Backstabbing, gossiping, and lying to avoid direct confrontation are not in my arsenal of conflict resolution strategies, and as much as possible, I avoid being involved with anyone who employs such tactics.
Yes! I want to read more from Real Life Heartless Bitches
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