Marta was raised on a very specific, very toxic diet of praise. Every time she put her own needs aside, the world rewarded her. "Marta, you are so mature for your age." "Marta, you never complain." "Marta, you are the perfect daughter."
But healing means Marta must sit in the silence. She must learn to exist without being useful. She must look in the mirror and ask: If I wasn't helping anyone, if I wasn't making anyone happy, would I still like myself?
For thirty years, Marta has honored that contract. She says "yes" to every favor. She apologizes for having a bad day. She explains her emotions in a soft voice so nobody feels threatened. She has perfected the art of shrinking.
The Cage of Kindness: Why Marta Martínez Can’t Say No (And How She Takes Her Life Back)
So, dear Marta Martínez, here is your permission slip to be a little "bad."