I’m a little thin-skinned sometimes, and a few specific behaviors from some others are still challenging to me.

However, this is no longer a major issue in the way that it has been, so I’m counting it done.

The best approach for me was to do my very best to understand why someone might have been hurtful in that way. When I understand – even if I don’t agree – it’s a lot easier to bracket it out and get some distance.

Also, I’m not nearly as fragile as I was when I was writing the dissertation or looking for a job. Things in my life are fairly stable and good right now; that means more confidence in myself, less vulnerability and self-absorption. When you’re depressed and a bit insecure – as I had been – it takes less to throw you into emotional turmoil anyway.