Are you really selfish?

Are you really selfish? Or are you just being manipulated?

A dependent individual may often call you selfish, as a form of manipulation, when you are creating healthy space for yourself from what may be an unhealthy co-dependent relationship.

You are never being "selfish" if you are not purposefully hurting another person. If a dependent person is hurting, due to separation, it is because they need to work through their dependency and separation anxiety issues; you are actually doing them a favor by creating this healthy separation.

Being selfish implies that you do not have consideration for others. However, having consideration for yourself does not equate to being selfish. Have consideration for yourself. Take care of yourself. You will then be a much healthier partner in any relationship.

 - Michael Garbe