There is a certain universal truth that rarely gets said outright but is known deep down by almost everyone: nobody likes a suck. The term might be crude, but the sentiment behind it is sharp and clear. People who whine, complain, fold under pressure, or constantly seek pity instead of solving problems tend to repel rather than attract. In any setting — work, relationships, competition, or life in general — strength, resilience, and decisiveness are valued. Weakness of character, especially when worn proudly, is not.

Being vulnerable is different. There is value in honest emotion, especially when it’s expressed with courage. But a “suck” doesn’t show vulnerability to heal or grow. They show it to avoid responsibility, to gain sympathy, or to escape effort. They make excuses instead of changes. They drag others into their drama rather than lifting themselves out of it. And while everyone has low moments, staying there and making a personality out of it isn’t admirable. It’s exhausting.

No one is expected to be tough every second. But what people do expect — and respect — is someone who, despite feeling overwhelmed, gets up anyway. Someone who doesn’t whimper through the task, but grits their teeth and pushes through it. Someone who doesn’t collapse at the first sign of resistance, but learns how to carry their weight, emotionally and practically.

If you want to be respected, be useful. Be someone who faces discomfort without becoming a problem for everyone else. If you want to be valued, be someone who can be counted on, not someone who always needs to be carried.

At the end of the day, life isn’t easy. And nobody is going to hand you admiration, friendship, or success if you act like the world owes you comfort. It doesn’t. Show strength. Show effort. Even if you’re struggling, show that you’re trying. That’s the kind of energy people want around.