Great advice. I’ve broken some of these and knew afterwards that I had damaged the relationship or made my friendship messier.

The only one I’d disagree with is in regards to infidelity and only when it’s a part of an abusive, habitual pattern.

In addition to discussing it with a therapist, it may be helpful to find an emotionally healthy, empathetic confidant who will give wise counsel or gently hold you accountable to better self-care.

This was immensely helpful to me as I struggled with the decision when to leave the marriage. Her nonjudgmental support helped to give me the reality testing I needed to sort through my confused feelings.