From your question, I can sense that you are a kind person who often thinks about others. When faced with a controlling relative, you may attribute the cause of the disharmony to yourself, as if it is only reasonable to take care of them and obey them.
Dealing with people who are highly controlling can often make us feel a bit uncomfortable, and it's understandable that we might want to rebel in such a situation.
However, in your description, it seems that your reaction may be perceived as unreasonable, and you even call it rebellion. This is something to consider.
I would like to respectfully propose that we consider this topic from two aspects: cause analysis and coping methods.
It would be beneficial to consider the following analysis of the causes:
It would seem that there may be a number of reasons for this change in behaviour.
Firstly, it is important to note that obedience can be a reaction that suppresses one's inner resentment. However, prolonged suppression may result in the accumulation of energy within, which could potentially lead to a rebellion. When this energy reaches a certain level, it may manifest through words or actions. It is understandable that this may seem sudden, but it is important to recognise that it is often the result of gradual accumulation.
Secondly, it could be said that submission is merely a stance taken to maintain the relationship. However, it is possible that deep down, there may be resentment towards the control. This could result in a constant testing of the other party's limits in order to protect one's own interests. It is understandable that conflict may arise from both parties attempting to break through these limits during such a test.
Third, as a result of their own personal growth and evolution, the originally submissive approach may no longer align with their evolving hearts. As their hearts grow stronger, they may find themselves with the strength to resist control, which could manifest in their words and actions.
Perhaps it would be helpful to consider a few possible reasons for this change in behaviour.
Perhaps it would be helpful to consider the following:
Perhaps it would be helpful to consider the following:
How might we approach this?
Regardless of the reason for the conflict, it is important to recognize that control can potentially infringe upon the boundaries of others. It is also a normal reaction to feel uncomfortable in the face of control. Could we consider accepting and affirming this normal reaction in ourselves?
Obedience can be a way to avoid conflict, while resistance can be a way to protect one's boundaries. It depends on the person and the situation which approach is taken.
Obedience can be a way to avoid conflict, while resistance can be a way to protect one's boundaries. It may be helpful to consider which approach is most appropriate in a given situation and with a particular individual.
The core principle is self-boundaries. It may be helpful to think carefully about what we must defend and what we can concede.
It may be helpful to consider that resisting the inviolable may convey to others that it should not be violated, while submitting to the negotiable could indicate that we value the relationship.
Ultimately, if you are happy, it will have a positive effect on those around you. It is important to accept yourself, defend yourself, love yourself, and cherish yourself from the inside out, as this will enable you to contribute more to your family.
My name is Teng Ying, and I'm a psychological counselor at One Psychological. I hope I can be of help to you.
My name is Teng Ying, and I am a psychological counselor at One Mind. I hope that I can be of some assistance to you.


Comments
I can totally relate to feeling the need to push back against those who try to control everything. It seems like finding a balance and setting boundaries might be key here. Maybe we could talk about how you're feeling with them, gently but firmly.
It sounds like a challenging situation. Perhaps it's time for an openhearted conversation with your mother and husband, expressing your feelings without blame. Sometimes people don't realize their behavior until it's brought to their attention in a loving way.
Midlife rebellion does seem like a fitting term for what you're experiencing. It's almost like reclaiming parts of yourself that were overshadowed by others' expectations. Maybe this is a positive sign of personal growth and selfawareness emerging.
Feeling submissive for too long can lead to a breaking point where you just can't take it anymore. It's important to stand up for yourself and establish clear limits. Therapy or counseling might also offer support in navigating these changes within your relationships.
You've recognized this shift within yourself, which is already a big step. Now it's about deciding what kind of relationship dynamic you want moving forward. Consider what compromises can be made on both sides to reach a healthier middle ground.