Being A Self In The World Is Hard

Prioritizing self-awareness, understanding our own energy, and establishing boundaries is undeniably challenging. From a young age, many of us are ingrained with the belief that being virtuous entails sacrificing our own needs and well-being for the sake of others. People are conditioned to equate goodness with selflessness—being a dutiful child, a caring spouse or partner, and a responsible citizen often means subjugating our own sense of self.

Saying "no" to our loved ones often feels uncomfortable, as we fear it may betray our loyalty or kindness. Obedience can be mistakenly conflated with respect, leading us to neglect our own boundaries.

However, it's crucial to recognize that cultivating a strong sense of self and establishing clear boundaries isn't just a personal endeavor; it's essential for fostering healthy relationships and contributing positively to our families and communities. By honoring our own needs and boundaries, we empower ourselves to be more authentic, resilient, and impactful members of our familial and societal networks.