Hello Jack or Jock?

A new member here, and I can relate to this, and here’s my fair share when it comes to individual’s suffering. It is real and it exists, my question is how can you shield yourself, while upholding your truth, and still be enjoying the company you are used to, ex. relatives, colleagues, friends?
Recently in my work environment; for the longest time I have uphold my truth and dedication to work till I hit rock bottom seeing my self very hurt, and can no longer stand up for myself, can no longer give, battered. Though I have thought I am prepared and will never be affected as badly as I saw myself very recently (thanks for the angels or alliance of Tiny Buddha).. Was I wrong standing for my beliefs, I ask until now… So I guess, we should see somehow the patterns before it will lead us back again to a complete suffering…