Protect you...

  I truly feel like you have to be in a state of mind that forces you to prioritize what works best for you! 

This sounds so generic but it’s much deeper than that. Let me explain. Things that work best for you include, removing yourself, asserting yourself, self assessment, situational assessments, and most of all honesty with yourself before literally anything else! 

Don’t be afraid of whose feelings you hurt, be afraid of those who won’t acknowledge your feelings because it’s in their best interest that they don’t. It will benefit them if you're uncomfortable and they know it 100% but will not acknowledge it, take initiative, or ask even though they know the answer(those are the people that want to be a good person for the sake of you continuing to benefit them.)  

These are all things you can do for yourself and act accordingly. Stop looking for people to care for you, if you look at this as anything but a mere bonus to a relationship then you’re setting yourself up for more than uncomfort. Stop expecting and do for yourself. Make it your mission to care about you.  Honestly, that’s the only way you’ll be your best self to anyone else. Your happiness belongs to you! Don’t ever give anyone that luxury. At least not whole heartedly. YOU need this.