In as much as it's important we listen to the suggestions and comments of others, we are not obliged to do what they say. Anyone can say anything, whether they mean it or not. In fact when people are allowed to speak their mind, they can go to the extreme and say things that could be very damaging to the listener if care is not taken. That's why it's critical we have a mind of our own.
During my early teenage years, I had this classmate that controlled everyone around her. Because she was very attractive and had a charming sort of charisma, other students were attracted to her. With time her controlling nature became distasteful to a couple of us and we move away from her. I didn't need an association like that, I want to be myself and make my own decisions in school.
Within a year, she changed and became a completely different person. She appreciated those of us who upheld our personalities and were not pushed around. Eventually we became friends. Never allow yourself to be a puppet in the hands of others, no matter how influential they are. Take your stand, reason with others and do what you feel is the best course of action.