I Realize that in most instances, I’m not responsible for the feelings of others. It took a lot of self blame off my shoulders.
Edit for clarity: This is not a license to be discourteous.
Here is an example: You are 35 and single. Your mom really wants you to get married, but you have no desire to do so. This really upsets her, but this choice of yours and you don’t have to carry the burden of her feelings.