[quote=citydweller]One of the biggest changes in my thinking that has brought me peace of mind is the realization that it is not my job to ensure that others are happy. Nor is it my job to impart my “wisdom” to others on how to live their lives (yes, I do see the irony considering that I am now trying to impart my so-called wisdom to you). I cannot over emphasize what a feeling of relief it was to no longer feel that it was my responsibility to “fix” everyone else.
Just relax and realize that life is really quite simple. All you have to do is show up. You do not need to impress anyone (even yourself). If you are breathing you are living, it doesn’t get any more simple than that.[/quote]
Well put, citydweller. I have a co-dependent streak which I have to fight off. It took me a long while to realize that other adults need to go down whatever road they must, BY THEMSELVES, to figure out how to proceed with a problem. There’s really no need for “bearishgurl, the coach” or “Cabal, the go-to person” to be constantly in the background picking up the pieces.
This applies to a lesser extent to teenagers and those 18-30 year olds who already “know it all.” But we need to be there for them if/when they seek our counsel.
