1. Claim my truth: “I’m balanced — I give deeply but keep my core safe.”
2. Root cause: I think it comes from seeing both sides of love growing up. I saw people who loved with complete loyalty, but I also saw how badly someone can break when they forget themselves in the process. That taught me that love should feel safe, not consuming. My personality also plays a part — I care deeply, but I need emotional stability too. 3. Defining moment: There was a time when I gave someone almost all of my attention, energy, and trust. I would always be available for them, even when I was mentally exhausted. One day, during a difficult moment in my life, I realized I didn’t feel the same support back. It wasn’t dramatic or toxic — just painfully one-sided. I remember sitting there thinking, “I can love someone deeply without abandoning myself.” That moment changed the way I love forever. 4. Current wisdom: Love doesn’t have to mean losing your boundaries. Giving your heart fully is beautiful, but your identity, peace, and self-respect matter too. Real love grows stronger when both people can be honest, independent, and emotionally safe at the same time.