Selfburdening

Selfburdening is a term used to describe the act of voluntarily taking on excessive responsibilities or emotional weight, often beyond what is reasonable or necessary. This can manifest in various ways, such as consistently overcommitting to tasks, feeling responsible for the emotions or problems of others, or internalizing societal pressures and expectations to an unhealthy degree. While often stemming from good intentions, such as a desire to help or a strong sense of duty, selfburdening can lead to significant stress, burnout, and a diminished sense of personal well-being.

Individuals who engage in selfburdening may struggle to set boundaries, leading them to feel overwhelmed and depleted. They might perceive saying no as selfish or unhelpful, even when it compromises their own capacity. This can create a cycle where they continually take on more, despite the negative impact on their mental and physical health. Recognizing selfburdening involves an awareness of one's own capacity and the ability to differentiate between helpful assistance and an unsustainable level of personal responsibility. Managing selfburdening often involves developing assertiveness, learning to delegate, and practicing self-compassion.