People fear losing everything they've 'achieved' and all their 'connections' so some also fear leaving. People addicted to heroin fear feeling sick so continue to feed their addiction. Addiction naturally creates fear of stopping.

My first break from all this, years ago, caused inner turmoil. I was worried for a time the people I valued would think I no longer care about them. As if I turned my back on them. But eventually, and after coming back along with taking several breaks since then I've realized if you attract genuine and loyal folks, they will remain that way. Only one member here ever complained and insulted me for taking a break on my own terms. That individual turned out to be somewhat evil anyway so it's a bonus to shake those kind of people off, especially when you don't have to do or say anything to them to get rid of them.

And I've always found it difficult to create my own thing or think my own way when others are busy doing it for me as I consume. A balance is necessary, for me anyway.