When you’ve spent years being the reliable one, slowing down can feel uncomfortable.
Rest may feel unearned. Receiving may feel awkward. Not being needed can feel disorienting.
This isn’t a flaw, it’s an identity shift. And it takes time.
I gave away so much of my energy to others and it became exhausting and when I finally said no more it was such a relief and now I protect my energy at all costs. Calm and ease.