Feeling Seen and Heard

 Echoism is a quiet, often unnoticed way of being, but its effects can be felt deeply in our lives. At its heart, echoism is the tendency to put others’ needs first — sometimes so much so that we forget our own. This pattern often takes root early in life within environments where our voices weren’t always heard or our needs were overshadowed, teaching us that the wants and desires of others were more important than our own.

When echoism takes hold, we may find ourselves quietly stepping back, holding back our feelings, and suppressing big emotions, all in an effort to avoid upsetting others. We pour our energy into helping, giving, and being there for those around us. And while these actions come from a place of good intentions — when unreciprocated — they can leave us feeling unseen, unheard, and disconnected from what our hearts truly desire.

But there is so much hope in healing from echoism. It’s a gentle and loving journey of finding your voice again — learning that your needs are just as important as anyone else’s. It’s about giving yourself permission to be true to who you are, to express your feelings, and to set healthy, loving boundaries. By embracing your own worth and stepping into the fullness of your authentic self, you create space for healthy and balanced relationships. Remember, you matter. Your voice, your presence, and your well-being are a gift to the world around you. (Daily OM)