That is kind of why I do my own thing nowadays! If people don't like it, what are they gonna do about it? Give me a bad name for trying to become a better version of myself on my own terms? If they do that, from what I understand, isn't that a form of NARCISSISTIC ABUSE!?
And that's exactly why you don't have to pay attention to them. They can waste all their time and energy on rumors and talking crap, but none of that is your responsibility - instead you can focus on yourself and others who matter to you more instead, and thrive from there!
Which is something I'm trying to do! It does bother me at times but I'm pulling through! ^^