Dear Question Asker,
I extend my sincerest regards to you from a distance, and I commend your generosity, your willingness to sacrifice, and your loving and responsible heart.
The image that emerges from reading the text is that of a woman sitting opposite you, exhausted, torn apart inside, needing to care for her children, and troubled by life. She understands and sympathizes with you in your difficult situation. Perhaps if you examine your current situation from a different perspective, you will realize that the transition from the "savior complex" has had a significant impact on you or caused emotional issues within your family.
Let us examine this concept together.
All phenomena possess dualistic characteristics, exhibiting both positive and negative aspects. When these aspects are skewed towards the two extremes, the result is a phenomenon that is difficult to accept. The "savior complex," for instance, represents a normal manifestation of the kindness associated with a helping motive. However, when this motive is excessive, it can lead to an increase in the burden of the "savior complex," potentially affecting family relationships in a negative manner.
What is the appropriate perspective on this boundary?
(1) Meaning of "savior":
He is a tall illusion of a strong person supporting the weak, and can be understood as a guide of the "heart or soul." While the initial objective is sound, there is a significant distinction between aspiration and actualization. Only with a certain material foundation can one "save the world and help the poor."
2) The conditions for becoming a savior:
One might inquire as to the characteristics of an individual who possesses the capacity to become a savior. Such an individual would likely demonstrate advanced cognitive abilities, a profound sense of self, and the capacity to influence the underlying thoughts of others.
3) Self-awareness and self-analysis:
From the analysis of items 1 and 2, it can be seen that the questioner is still an "ordinary mortal." They do not possess superhuman strength or supernatural powers, and they are not a "savior." They are merely setting higher goals for themselves out of their own "compassion" (the identity and plot of a savior). Alternatively, they may have overestimated their ability to regulate themselves. Although pressure can be a driving force, once it exceeds the limits of what one can bear, the inner emptiness (powerless love) will be unable to support one, and one will also be crushed by the pressure.
4) Boundary setting:
The questioner has acquired professional knowledge in psychology, enabling them to cultivate personal growth and self-care, accept the present, and maintain relationships with tolerance and acceptance. Your expertise has fostered the questioner's tolerance and excellence. While you may not possess the capacity to calmly navigate the present situation, you can mitigate the pressure and pain of the moment and face it with composure. However, the trivial matters of real life and the use of money are not directly solvable by psychology. They are influenced by numerous factors, including each person's perception, values regarding money, and consumption habits formed since childhood.
Psychological theory emphasises the distinction between personal issues and the establishment of secure boundaries in relationships. In writing this, I approach the present with a clear mind. The questioner entered the marriage with the mentality of a "savior", assuming responsibilities and obligations that are not theirs. Concurrently, "compassion" prevailed, magnifying "sympathy" (analogous to the "false empathy bias effect"), creating an "illusion of self-awareness and imagining life as perfect." Furthermore, reasonable planning and arrangements for consumption in life, and the unclear definition of related expenses, the comfort level of the safety boundaries of the two combined has never been discussed or set. It is precisely this that has led to the current situation.
In conclusion, the questioner's background in psychology and strength of character notwithstanding, he is still a "mortal." It is therefore prudent to examine and compare one's past experiences, to do everything within one's means, and to do one's best. It is similarly important to avoid overextending oneself or undertaking tasks that are beyond one's capabilities or resources. It is also essential to remember that one is not a "savior," and that there is no need to set limits for oneself with a "savior complex."
It is not feasible for the questioner to assist all individuals, particularly those in relationships with whom they are unable to offer assistance, even if they desire to do so. Even when one is able to provide help to others, it is only possible to do so for a limited duration; thus, it is essential to consider carefully before taking action.
It would be prudent to consider the following questions:
1) Is it the result of setting an excessively ambitious goal? If so, how should it be perceived?
What is the appropriate course of action?
2) In a marital relationship, is one partner more active than the other?
3) Is it possible to continue assuming the role of "savior" in one's marriage? How should one respond to the present when one's abilities are insufficient?
To illustrate, one might consider the following aspects of one's life: one's emotional state, stress levels, planned spending, and so forth. The same approach can be applied to one's marriage, one's relationship with one's children, and so on.
4) In a critical moment, it is imperative to contribute as much as possible, as this is one's moral obligation. It is sufficient to have a tranquil mind if one has exerted one's utmost effort, but it is unwise to attempt to do more than one is capable of.
Even if one does not ultimately succeed, it is important not to feel excessive guilt or self-blame. Marriage also requires mutual assistance and respect, independence, and each partner taking on their own responsibilities and obligations. In a relationship, both partners need to have their own lives and have their own days to live. Love is in the heart, and obligations are in the heart. In reality, there are many instances where things do not go as one would wish. Everything has its own trajectory, running its own course without interfering with each other. It is therefore preferable to go with the flow and revere it, rather than trying to change it.
This concept is analogous to the adage, "An egg breaks from the inside, giving birth to a new life; if it breaks from the outside, it will lose the chance to even be served on the table."
The brevity of life and the ultimate insignificance of human agency render the distinction between right and wrong moot. The accumulation of experiences imbues life with richness and tranquility. Simplicity can be found amidst complexity, and equilibrium and happiness can be attained amidst the turbulence of uncertainty.
Apart from life and death, there is no significant consequence. When one's heart becomes simple, the world in one's eyes will become simple, and happiness will naturally be simple and uncomplicated.
Best regards,
It is my hope that the aforementioned responses prove beneficial to the individual who posed the question.
My name is Peiwen, and I am a listener on the Yixinli platform. I extend my love and best wishes to you and the world at large.
Comments
I can see that you've been through a lot together. It seems like your marriage has faced many challenges, and it's clear you've made significant sacrifices for your husband and his children. You've taken on a nurturing role not only as a wife but also as a stepmother and have tried to support him in numerous ways. Yet, it feels like the efforts you've put into the relationship haven't been reciprocated in the way you expected or needed. The situation with finances and household responsibilities has created tension between you two, and it's understandable that you feel unappreciated and emotionally distant.
Your story resonates deeply with me. I admire your strength and willingness to help others, especially those who are suffering. However, it sounds like this relationship has become draining for you. Despite your attempts to improve things, it seems like your husband hasn't fully recognized or valued your contributions. The imbalance in financial responsibility and emotional support has likely contributed to your feelings of dissatisfaction and loss of interest in the relationship.
It sounds like you've invested so much of yourself into this relationship, both emotionally and financially. After everything you've done, from caring for his children to supporting him through difficult times, it's disheartening that he doesn't seem to offer the same level of commitment or understanding. Your husband's behavior, especially during your pregnancy and postpartum period, must have been particularly hurtful. It's important for partners to share responsibilities and provide mutual support, especially during such critical times.
You've shown great resilience and compassion throughout your journey together. But it's evident that the strain of managing family life, work, and personal health has taken its toll on you. Your husband's lack of involvement in household duties and his tendency to rely on you for comfort, much like he would with his mother, have left you feeling unsupported and undervalued. It's crucial for partners to grow together and respect each other's needs and boundaries.
It's apparent that you've given a lot to this relationship and have tried to make things work despite the hardships. Your background in psychology has probably helped you understand and accept many aspects of your husband's behavior. Still, it's heartbreaking when one partner feels they are carrying the weight of the relationship alone. It's important for both partners to contribute equally and show appreciation for each other's efforts.