When you’re “on” too much for others but not enough for yourself

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When you’re “on” too much for others but not enough for yourself

There’s a particular kind of exhaustion that comes from always having to perform. Not performing in the theatrical sense, but performing in the sense of constantly managing how you show up for others.

It’s the smile you put on for customers even when you’re having the worst day. It’s the energy you project at work when you’d rather be anywhere else. It’s the version of yourself you present to the world while something completely different is happening inside.

Do this all day and you’ll probably want to crawl inside your shell when you get home.

This applies to everyone, from celebrities and musicians, to baristas and office workers, Really, anyone who feels like they need to perform a certain version of themselves constantly. The weight of that performance can become crushing.