Exploration of Cool

I think being "cool" is just trying to understand yourself and others, being compassionate and honest, and always trying to make situations better. Also, being funny wouldn't hurt. In terms of image, I just think someone who takes care of themselves (showers, shaves, wears deodorant) is cool enough. There are people who have impressive styles, but I don't think that's necessary to be cool (maybe to others it is).

One thing I don't like about "cool" though is that it causes people to become even more judgmental than they would be otherwise. Even in my idea of "cool" which is not strictly image based, I'm setting up certain standards to measure people up by. That can tend to either hurt people's feelings, or "gas"them up.

But I mean honestly, if you base your own view of yourself, or your self esteem on what other people think of you, you will go through a constant rollacoster of emotions; one day you'll feel great, and the next day you'll feel like shit. One thing you surly won't be is stable and content in yourself.

It may sound super corny, or unrealistic, but no one should base their idea of themselves on what other people say. There are many people who are negative, and thrive on bringing down others. Just because a member of your family, or a person in your social group is constantly criticizing you or telling you how you should be, doesn't mean that there's something wrong with you. I think it's cool if you can just shrug off their opinions and know that even though you may not be "good enough" for them, you are happy with who you are, and you will find people who do accept you.

In life you don't need anyone who does not like you the way you are, because those people will literally suck out your happiness, self esteem and whatever else they can take. Worst comes to worst, you can always be your own best friend, but when you let others tell you how you should change to please them and their standards, you become your own worst enemy.