Adult Friendships, Boundaries, and Being ‘Too Much’: The Truth About Staying Open

In this episode of The Quest for Self, we dive into the emotional complexity of making friends as an adult—and why it can sometimes hurt more than we expect. We explore what happens when your kindness, joy, and openness are misread, mocked, or quietly judged by people you thought were safe. Navigating adult friendships can be tricky, especially when your genuine energy is met with coldness, sarcasm, or low-key shade.

We reflect on what it feels like to be seen as “too much” simply for being expressive, friendly, or enthusiastic—and how that judgment can trigger old wounds. We also talk about the difference between being kind and being naïve, and how to protect your softness while still staying open to real connection.

Through personal stories, reflection, and grounded advice, we unpack how to build boundaries without  ...