I don't really know. I imagine myself being typically clear-eyed about this sort of thing. The closest thing I can think of, where my perspective changed over time, was with one of my previous employers. Certain individuals with power didn't like me, so I, rather passive-aggressively, decided I will spite them by being ever present and indispensable. They responded by openly gaslighting me to the extent that anytime they said or did something to me, I had to say it out loud and to somebody. If I didn't, it never happened and their reality would reign supreme. I tolerated that gaslighting for way too long, thinking I was winning the "argument" by being ever present and indispensable. Winning doesn't really matter if you're subjected to the loser's rage and entitlement.
What's a quote (from any source) that has stuck with you through the years? Can be funny, serious, poignant, etc.