There is no triumph in fighting for affection.

Love isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Truly, there is nothing to gain from competing for love. Relationships are not a game you play, manipulating the odds by showing them only what you want them to see and pocketing your aces.

Love is a habit to curate and a commitment to make each and every day. It is a choice. Don’t confuse having to win someone’s affection as proof that you’re worth loving. Anyone who knows their worth doesn’t devalue their pride by begging for love.

You shouldn’t have to compete with others for the object of your affection, and you don’t need to prove that you’re good enough for them. You already are just by being you. And say you’re “not good enough” for someone else? Show them the door. You must know that you’re deserving the love you’re seeking, insofar as you won’t settle for anything less.

Because if you’re worried that settling for scraps is the best you’ll ever get, you’ll never push it aside and wait for the main course. Affection should be freely given, and avidly at that. If someone doesn’t enthusiastically welcome you into their home, then who are you to force their door open? And more importantly, why would ever you want to?

Instead of fighting for someone else’s affection, use that energy to fill your own life with love, and love yourself with as much (or more) quality than you love others. If your own glass is full, you won’t need to sacrifice yourself for someone else when they only offer you a drop.