Marianismo: When Being "The Good Woman" Means Losing Yourself

Have you ever wondered why it's easier to care for others than it is to care for yourself? Many women grow up believing that being a "good" daughter, partner, mother, or friend means always putting others first. Over time, this constant self-sacrifice can leave you feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, disconnected from your own needs, and wondering why you're never enough despite giving so much.

While this shows up in many cultures under different names and forms, for many Latinas these expectations are shaped by marianismo—a cultural belief system that values caregiving, humility, sacrifice, and emotional endurance.