Pick your relationships wisely, and you won't have to pick your battles.

My whole life, I've been told I'm too sensitive and outspoken and need to let things go. Only in my twenties have I learned that honest, straightforward communication is an asset, not a flaw. Everyday conversations shouldn't feel like a battlefield. If you have to pick your battles, you're in an unhealthy relationship with someone who most likely has a fragile ego and is criticism-avoidant. 

It's not normal to walk on eggshells around grown-ass adults. You and the other person should have a mutual understanding that you both mean well and are sincere, and you should also have the maturity to give and take constructive criticism. Therefore, you should be able to discuss any issue in the relationship, freely and openly, without being silenced. 

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