Sorry, I Have Feelings Too – Not Sorry!

You ever have one of those days where you’re just done? Like, “please, nobody ask me for anything unless it’s chocolate or silence” level of done? Emotional drainage is real, folks. Not the cute kind like "aww I’m tired because I cared too much"—no. The “I feel like my soul just filed for resignation” kind.

Now, here’s the plot twist: you’re expected to show up. Always. Show up, smile, nod, listen, support, carry the emotional weight of the nation, and when you—just ONCE—dare to say, “Hey, I’m not okay,” what do you get?

“Oh, so now you’re making it about you?”

Excuse me, what? Since when did me talking about my feelings become an act of rebellion?


The Emotional ATM Syndrome

Let’s talk about Emotional ATM Syndrome. You’re the Emotional ATM—people come, swipe their card of crisis, withdraw empathy, and leave. But the moment your machine needs maintenance, oh boy. Alarms go off.

“I didn’t expect this from you.”

“You’re not the same anymore.”

“You’ve changed.”

Well, yes. I’ve changed. I’m tired. My emotional bandwidth is not unlimited, Karen.


The "Selfish" Label

The funniest part? The moment you choose yourself, you’re instantly tagged as “selfish.”

Take a break from helping someone? Selfish.

Say no to a plan because you’re emotionally fried? Selfish.

Don’t reply to a rant because your own mind is spiraling? Selfish.

You know what’s wild? Nobody calls someone selfish for overworking themselves, saying yes to everyone, or losing sleep for others. But the moment you choose your sanity—bam! Villain origin story.


So, What’s the Solution? Let’s Be Real.

We’re not here to flip tables and disappear into the mountains (although tempting). We’re here to learn the fine art of emotional boundaries.

1. Check Your Emotional Wallet First

Before handing out your emotional energy like free samples at a supermarket, check if you have enough. Don’t run on empty.


2. Normalize Saying No

“No” is a full sentence. You don’t owe a thesis statement explaining why you need time for yourself. “I can’t right now” is more than valid.


3. Be Your Own Safe Space

If nobody’s giving you room to feel, make room. Journal. Go for a walk. Cry in the shower with dramatic music. Whatever works. Just feel, without guilt.


4. Find Your People

Surround yourself with folks who don’t make you feel guilty for choosing yourself. The ones who say, “Take your time,” not “You’re being distant.”


Let’s Flip the Narrative

You choosing your peace is not betrayal. You putting your oxygen mask on first is not selfishness. It’s survival.

Because guess what? A burnt-out version of you can’t show up for anyone—not even yourself.

So next time someone tries to guilt-trip you for setting emotional boundaries, just smile and say:

“Sorry, I have feelings too. Not sorry.”

And maybe walk away dramatically for flair. Optional, but highly recommended.


Comments

  1. This is such a strong statement yet it doesn't push, but uplifts!

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Me, Myself, and the Awkward Silence ✨

Getting Through the Gloom: Because Life Won’t Pause for Sad Days

New Year, Same Me – But With Fresher Hair