No. 73 Social burnout, friendship guilt + honest communication
In this episode, we talk about the reality of wanting meaningful connection and wanting spaciousness, solitude, and time that isn’t accounted for. Especially in adulthood. Especially when your life is full. Especially when your job already requires you to be “on” all day.
We explore:
Why there is no perfect recipe for friendship
Misperceptions of time and why one hour actually counts
Choosing activities with clear start and end points
Knowing who energizes you vs. who drains you
What your guilt might actually be trying to tell you
Why clear, honest communication matters more than frequency
A practical way to keep friendships warm without burning yourself out
If you love your friends but also love being alone…
If a text asking to hang out next week fills you with dread and longing…
If you’re trying to reconcile who you used to be with who you are now…
You’re in the right place. This episode is about releasing unrealistic expectations, honoring your current capacity, and finding ways to stay connected without abandoning yourself.
>>>>> FIND ME
INSTAGRAM: @theevergreenrx
TIKTOK: @theevergreenrx
YOUTUBE: @TheEvergreenRx
WEBSITE: theevergreenrx.com
ASK YOUR QUESTION: (512) 655-9888 (USA)
For submitting questions or business inquiries, please email me at theevergreenrx@gmail.com
Disclaimer: Everything posted here is for educational or entertainment purposes only and is not a replacement for individualized medical or mental health treatment. Please reach out to a professional therapist or doctor if you are in need of assistance. Listener questions may be specific to one individuals life or an amalgamation of common experiences and dilemmas.
Listen to full episode :
Your prescription for living well, dose for this week: Social burnout is normal — wanting friendships but having limited energy doesn’t mean you don’t care, it usually means your capacity has shifted. Honest communication (instead of guilt or ghosting) helps protect friendships while letting them adapt to your real life. Small, intentional check-ins often sustain connection better than trying to force big, perfect hangouts. 🌿❄️
Schedule shorter, structured hangouts (coffee, walks, defined time windows)
Set expectations upfront about time limits
“Kick the can” (delay gently) or over-communicate availability
Keep a running list of friends to reconnect with
Notice which friendships energize vs drain you
EPISODE RESOURCES >>>>>
Ep. 45 Outgrowing friendships + learning how to say goodbye
