Tag Page SelfReflection

#SelfReflection
AriGotYourBack

Realizing My Own Shadow: Why My Friendships Haven't Lasted

For the first time, I see that maybe my friendships didn't work out because I was a heavy presence to be around. I don't think this is the only reason, but it never clicked until now. At 21, I've been living with depression for as long as I can remember, and lately, it's felt even heavier. I used to think my loneliness was about not fitting in, but now I see how much I brought my sadness into every moment. I'm learning to accept my past, even if some days I'm angry at myself. Maybe just being able to breathe a little easier is a start. Have you ever realized something about yourself that changed how you see your past? Share your thoughts below. #spiritualgrowth #selfreflection #healingjourney #mentalhealth #innerpeace #Spirituality

Realizing My Own Shadow: Why My Friendships Haven't Lasted
Vickyyy

Struggling with mixed emotions over family news​

My nephew, who’s five years younger than me and more like a cousin, just announced they’re having a baby. On the surface, I’m thrilled for them—I even said congratulations and meant it. But deep down, it’s breaking me. I’m single, with no clear path to starting a family of my own, and seeing their joy makes me feel devastated and guilty for feeling this way. It’s irrational, I know, but I can’t help it. I’ve been skipping family events because being around them reminds me of everything I’m not experiencing yet. I can’t bring myself to tell them how I feel—it feels selfish and unfair to burden them with my emotions. But the pain is real, and I don’t know how to move past it. How do I get over this? How can I deal with these feelings without isolating myself further? #FamilyNews #MixedEmotions #SelfReflection #EmotionalStruggles #FamilyDynamics #RomanticRelationships

Struggling with mixed emotions over family news​
Alexander Tapia

Why reciprocity in friendship feels so elusive?​

My husband and I have been grappling with a tough question: Why is reciprocity in friendships so challenging? After years of therapy, I’ve stepped back from relationships where I was the one always giving—listening, accompanying, and organizing. Meanwhile, my husband realized he’s usually the one initiating plans, hosting, and reaching out. Both in our 40s, child-free, and surrounded by fellow child-free friends, we’re exhausted by the constant analysis of our friendships. We feel like we’re putting in too much effort just to maintain them. I refuse to engage in unhealthy dynamics anymore, and my husband now regrets not noticing earlier—it made him feel worse about himself. Is this a sign of increased self-centeredness in society? Bad luck? Or a pattern we need to break? My husband tends to chase those less interested in him (a step forward), but I don’t. We’re still puzzled—what are we doing wrong? #FriendshipDynamics #ReciprocityInFriendships #MentalHealth #SelfReflection #RelationshipAdvice

Why reciprocity in friendship feels so elusive?​
LunarLagoon

When You Realize You’re the One Who Needs to Change

Today, it hit me: sometimes, I’m the ‘problem’ in my own parenting journey. I caught myself snapping at my kids over little things, only to realize it wasn’t about them—it was about my own stress and expectations. It’s humbling to admit, but recognizing my role in the chaos is the first step toward real growth. Instead of blaming the mess or the noise, I’m learning to pause, breathe, and ask myself what I can do differently. Growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s worth it for the sake of my family’s peace. Have you ever had a moment where you realized you might be the one who needs to change? Share your story below—I’d love to hear your thoughts! #ParentingJourney #SelfReflection #FamilyGrowth #Parenting

When You Realize You’re the One Who Needs to Change
Tag: SelfReflection - Page 6 | zests.ai