While this year has been difficult to say the least, I’m also really proud of myself. I made the decision to put me first. It’s been a long journey, and I wanted to share it in case it might help anyone else here who’s struggling with codependency.

I lived with my girlfriend for 3 years, but we broke up and still maintain a healthy friendship. I lost my grandmother this year, and experienced betrayal from another close friend who’s no longer in my life. Through the good and the bad I’ve allowed myself to trust again. When my most recent relationship ended I realized that I was putting everyone else’s needs ahead of my own, constantly sacrificing myself for the sake of others. It took a lot of pain to finally wake up to the fact that I needed to start prioritizing my wants and my needs.

What I’ve learned is that it doesn’t make you a bad person to put yourself first. It’s actually one of the most loving things you can do—for yourself and for anyone in your life. Boundaries are crucial, and I’m still learning to set and enforce them.

To anyone struggling with codependency, I just want to say this from the bottom of my heart: Never let anyone treat you the way you’d let them treat your inner child. Be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that you are enough, just as you are. It’s okay to take time and space for yourself—to heal, to grow, and to find peace in just being you.

Sending love and strength to everyone here. I’m still on my journey, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made, and I hope you can be proud of yours too. 💛