Every time I try to set a boundary or say no, I get this wave of guilt like I’m letting people down or being selfish. Even when I know I need the space or time for myself, it still feels wrong somehow.
I grew up in an environment where doing things for others was expected, no questions asked. So now, even basic self-care feels like a rebellion. And the worst part? Some people get upset when I don’t drop everything for them, which just makes the guilt worse.
I know logically that taking care of myself isn’t wrong. But emotionally, I still wrestle with feeling like I have to earn rest, or justify prioritizing my own needs.
Have you ever dealt with this? How did you unlearn that guilt and actually start feeling okay with putting yourself first?