The energy you expend worrying about what people think about you could be put to better use. What makes you feel like they are any better than you.
I think there is wisdom in spiritual speekers words. No one will respect you if you dont respect yourself.
I have issues with low self esteem, but since i started to atleast try and like myself people treat me different.
I used to walk with my head hung low, now even if I am feeling like crap I walk with my head high.
Let people think what they want. The only thing that is important is what you think about yourself.