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And constantly proving yourself can make a relationship feel more like an examination than a connection.

I started asking myself whether I was doing it willingly or just trying to avoid disappointing them.

That's an important question because effort stops feeling healthy when fear becomes the main motivation.

I think I also expected them to notice the little things I was doing.

And when those things go unnoticed repeatedly, it can make you question whether your effort even matters.

It definitely made me feel unappreciated and, honestly, a little resentful.

Resentment usually shows up when you're giving more than you're comfortable giving but saying nothing about it.