Every day, I feel the pull 
of a weight I never chose to hold. 
 
X marks the memory 
where someone first told me 
who I should be. 

Praise sounded like love, 
but it pressed itself onto my spine. 

Even now, I carry it 
like its mine. 

Carrying other people’s hopes 
became my quiet habit. 

The truth is: 
I learnt to shrink myself 
to fit their idea of “enough.” 

And for years, 
I called that survival. 

Then one day, 
my body whispered, 
“This isn’t yours.” 

In that unseen backpack 
were expectations, not belonging. 

Only when I opened it 
did I recognise the weight. 

Now I am learning 
to return what isn’t mine. 
 
Slowly, gently, 
I set it down, 
and walk lighter than I ever have. 

 

 
If you’re holding weights that don’t feel like yours, iDare offers a safe, non-judgemental space to open up, reflect, and feel supported. You can reach out to Support and Engage anytime on the app to connect with someone who listens with care.

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