Part 6/13:
Many societies promote cultural norms where individuals—especially mothers, wives, or caregivers—are expected to put their needs last. While altruism has its place, systematic self-neglect (e.g., mothers sacrificing their own well-being for children or caregivers for the elderly) is unhealthy and can be equated with pathology. These societal scripts contribute to the widespread acceptance of self-sacrifice without regard to personal health or boundaries.
The Concept of "Selffulness": A Healthy Alternative
To counterbalance the negative connotations of selfishness, the concept of "selffulness" is proposed as a healthy middle ground. Coined to describe mindful self-awareness and emotional boundaries, selffulness encompasses: