I have this age-old problem—I like Jason, Jason likes Karen, and Karen likes me. I’m a girl, and I’m not making this up. My head aches from this crazy carousel, and I want to get out. Wait, it gets crazier—we all live in the same house, working for the same company (although in different departments, thank God). Sometimes the tension gets too much that I want to jump out of our small window.
I can’t afford to live on my own, and quitting my job is just out of the question. Sometimes it’s too tempting to just say things out loud, because no one says anything yet everyone knows what the others are feeling. I’m going bonkers.
Cherry
Dear Cherry,
Yes, you’re in a mess alright. I think it’s the proximity that did it. You three are always together, at home and at work. In some situations familiarity breeds contempt, but I guess for you it’s the opposite. You all need a breath of fresh air, and it could only come from outside. Stale air breeds bacteria, and it’s now eating the frontal lobe of your brain—the section associated with reasoning, emotions and problem solving.
Just because they’re the first people you see when you wake up, and the last ones before you hit the sack, that doesn’t mean they have to be your life. They’re not the only people in the world. Seek out your other friends (I really hope you have other friends) and do things with them without your roommates/co-workers. Have a life outside of the one you have established with them.
If possible, try a different routine from what you’re used to. Come home later than usual, or don’t eat lunch or dinner with them. Join groups, pick up new hobbies, or take to reading in your room (please tell me you have your own room). Once you get a broader view of the horizon, I’m sure you will be able to put things in perspective. And when you can, move out.
