#20: Realistic Boundaries and Expectations
As you grow older, you may realize that some personal relationships are not worth your time and should have new boundaries. Never feel obliged to maintain a “good” relationship with someone who is toxic, even if that person is your parent. Trying to constantly please someone at the expense of your mental health is never good.
Setting boundaries for behavior is tough, but a good way to distance yourself and improve your mental well-being. Also, don’t let people take advantage of you. It’s so easy to always be the family member that fixes problems, or the friend who is the shoulder to cry on. This can be exhausting. Never feel like you are a bad person if you need to step back every once in a while. Sometimes you’re the one who needs to vent or cry, and that’s normal!