I have a problem. Maybe you can understand it.
My problem is I care too much.
I'm damn near an addict.
That sounds a little dramatic, I admit. That's just the best way to put it. The majority of my day is spent worrying about family, friends, strangers, whoever comes my way. Everyone comes to me with their problems. Even if they don't, I find them and ask about what's going on in their lives. A frowning face is like a Bat-Signal for me. One way or another, I'll find a way to help. If you're not someone that cares too much, you might be confused. Isn't caring supposed to be a good thing? Shouldn't we all be trying to care about people? The problem isn't caring, it's the amount. I spend all this time caring about others that I forget to care about myself. I tend forget to notice the people that care about me, which ends up making me feel pretty alone.
People that care too much about others are givers that give until they have nothing left. They find their personal value in the impact they have on other people's lives, instead of basing it on their own personal achievements and satisfaction. These people, until they realize that they have a problem, will continue to make themselves the very last priority. They do as much as they can until they are forced to come to the understand that they are not unlimited sources of effort and caring, that they can be tapped out. Once they realize that, they can start healing.
Stopping yourself from caring too much can be difficult. It feels selfish, which is a very new and gross feeling for someone like me. It is catching yourself before going a little too far out of your way to help someone out. It is seeing who you're truly helping and who is taking advantage of you. It is understanding that you are more than what you do for others, that you should be your own priority. It is awkward and uncomfortable and pretty damn difficult. Most of all, it'll make you a happier person. You'll still help people, still care just a little too much, but you'll be able to balance it and put yourself in a healthier place.
If you care too much, be proud! Be proud and be careful. Remember to care about yourself since you'll never forget to care about anyone else.
