As the first-born daughter in a Southeast Asian household, I couldn't help but relate to the "Eldest Daughter Syndrome" blogs that have taken the internet by storm.
From childhood, we are put through a lot. You are made to take responsibility for your siblings' actions, you are told to be the example—the perfect child. The one who listens, obeys, doesn’t talk back, and follows the rules. If you didn't, there were consequences: a lack of love, being deemed selfish, or worse, made to feel like you were a failure. As a child, where everything feels like life and death and all you want is to feel loved and safe, you conform to the perfect girl persona. You become, so to speak,the "good girl."
These qualities follow us into adulthood and our work life. As we become people pleasers, follow the rules, and take responsibility for everything, even if we are not at fault. This leads to burnout and the constant feeling that you are never good enough or, at worst, a failure. We tend to ignore our own well-being to accommodate and support our team, family, and friends, often costing us our joy and happiness.
However, recognizing these patterns is the first step towards change. Thankfully, it is possible to break free from these patterns. This is where the GGTG program has been so instrumental in my transformation. By introducing me to mindfulness, meditation, and the importance of developing healthy boundaries, I have been able to tap into my goddess persona.
With the support of GGTG, I’ve learned to prioritize my own well-being and embrace my strengths. I’ve discovered the power of self-compassion and the joy that comes from setting healthy boundaries.
Of course, setting boundaries can be challenging, especially in close-knit family dynamics where patterns of behavior may be deeply ingrained. It requires patience, self-awareness, and consistent effort. But the rewards are profound – stronger emotional resilience, deeper connections, and a greater sense of self-worth.
I have come to realize that establishing boundaries doesn't mean withdrawing love or support from our siblings and loved ones. Instead, it's about maintaining a healthy balance between offering assistance and allowing them the space to navigate their own lives. It's about honoring our own needs and limitations while respecting the autonomy and individuality of those we care about. By recognizing this balance, we empower both ourselves and our loved ones to thrive independently, while also becoming more resilient as a family.
The GGTG Collective provided a safe place for me to process these thoughts and emotions and helped me navigate them. The community's encouragement and shared experiences have shown me that I am not alone in this journey, and together, we can rise above these challenges.
If this blog resonates with you, do checkout the GGTG Program. It’s a transformative journey towards self-love and empowerment, offering a supportive community and the tools to create a balanced and fulfilling life. Embrace your inner goddess and step into a future filled with joy, confidence, and self-acceptance.