No matter how hard I tried as a child, it felt like my parents were never truly satisfied. I was open and sincere with my friends, yet somehow, I couldn’t meet their expectations either. At work, despite giving my all, my supervisor remained critical. As a team leader, encouraging others to do their best often led to resentment instead of gratitude. When I urged my students to stay focused on their studies, they responded with hostility. Even at home, my daughters would get annoyed when I encouraged them to eat healthily and exercise. Over time, I grew frustrated — not because I wasn’t trying, but because I kept hoping others would recognize and appreciate my efforts.

Often, people don’t truly understand how deeply committed we are. They don’t see that our actions come from a place of genuine care and a desire to help. And yet, when we give our best to others, it can feel painful when our efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated.

To remain authentic and continue serving with a full heart, we have to learn to release the need for approval. Otherwise, we risk losing ourselves in the process. Over time, I’ve learned to honor who I am, to keep giving my best, and to recognize my own worth — no matter how others respond. At the end of the day, it’s about you, not them.

Have you ever felt unappreciated despite giving your best? How did you handle it?