Frankly Speaking with Franca: How Do I Stop Feeling Guilty for Putting Myself First?
Question:
Franca, I’ve spent years being the dependable one for everyone—family, friends, even coworkers. Lately I feel drained, and when I try to set boundaries or say no, I feel selfish and guilty. How do I put myself first without feeling like I’m letting people down?
Answer:
First, putting yourself first is not abandoning others—it’s refusing to abandon yourself.
Many people confuse boundaries with rejection, but boundaries are really clarity. They teach people how to love and respect you.
Guilt often shows up when you start doing something healthy that you weren’t allowed to do before.
That guilt doesn’t always mean you’re doing something wrong.