I am two inches from the end of my rope.

[Robb]

And I feel horribly guilty about it. :(

Ever been around someone who's just one tragedy after another? Whose life is a seemingly endless parade of bad stuff?

I am, and it's getting to me. I mean, really, compared to them I've got nothing to complain about... but while terrible events unfold for them, I'm picking up the slack. I'm overworked and stressed out. And I'm turning into a great big

[Merlot]

1. Which end?

Watch out for those people who want you to pick up their slack. Because chances are, after you've burned yourself out to help them, they will be on their merry way.

I came from a family of those people. I was the official "go to girl" when they needed something. But now I look around, and see empty horizions, and little clouds of dust as they ride off...

[Robb]

3. So whattaya do?

Not help? :shrug: I'm not a stand-by-and-watch-it-crash kinda guy.

It's quite a puzzle. To be true to myself and the things I value, I help. And in so doing drag myself down. :crazy:

[Merlot]

5. I know. Not helping seems wrong.

You just have to measure out your "gifts" or there won't be anyting left for them or you!

Maybe you can find other ways to help that don't drain you right now as you are running on empty. Explain it to them.

Good luck!

[Kathy in Cambridge]

2. You need to take care of yourself too

I hate to say this, but sometimes people that have one bad event after another like to wallow in their own tragedy, and to a certain extent, bad luck is a self-fulfilling prophecy.

So here's a :hug: and take some time for yourself!

[hickman1937]

4. You sound really close to burn out.

Thats not good.

[davsand]

6. Do they draw these events to themselves?

Some people make bad choices, others just seem to draw bad things like honey draws bees-are they doing that same thing? Are you batting clean up so they can play drama queen?

If you feel it is sincerely just bad luck, then I have to ask--why must you carry them? Consider the question of what--exactly--you owe anyone other than yourself.

Laura

Robb, lest I sound mean spirited, I just got hoisted for doing this SAME kind of thing, while I put my own well being lower in importance. I do understand what you are going thru--OK? :hug:

[intrepid_wanderer]

7. Robb...

You've gotta believe that you're worth taking care of before you'll really give yourself permission to do just that - take care of yourself!! :-)

Sounds silly perhaps, but I'm still working on doing just that for myself.


Take care of you!! :bounce: It'll feel good when you have & look back on doing so.