Let’s talk about something tough today.
Codependency.
It’s not so hard to recognize when we have too many things. We do a declutter. Recognizing that we have too many commitments may be a little harder; that shows up in our bodies and minds, often as a feeling of overwhelm and anxiety.
Similarly, being or becoming reliant on another person’s love, validation, or approval can be really damaging over time. The definition of codependence is a psychological and behavioral condition where a person has an excessive emotional or psychological reliance on another individual, often to the detriment of their own well-being. It typically occurs in relationships where one person enables or supports another's unhealthy behaviors, such as addiction, poor mental health, immaturity, irresponsibility, or underachievement. But it can also feel like "walking on eggshells," or having to ask (unreasonable) permission for things, or even just a constant worry that you're not staying ahead or letting others down.
Are you co-dependent?
Here are some signs:
• Feeling responsible for others’ emotions
• Struggling to set boundaries & say "no"
• Prioritizing others over yourself (even when it hurts)
• Fear of abandonment keeps you stuck in unhealthy relationships
• Seeking validation through fixing or saving people
Codependency can show up in relationships with partners, friends, or family—especially when addiction or emotional instability is involved. Healing starts with self-awareness, boundaries, and self-worth.
If this is a struggle for you, spend some time with it in your prayer and reflection. Despite your co-dependence, there will always be something inside of you that knows that you are sacrificing yourself and weakening your strength. Dig into that. Notice it. Pay attention.
And then, we can work on reclamation.
🕊️
