This morning we get into a Hard Topic Tuesday that a lot of empathetic people might recognize: taking on other people’s problems like they’re our own.

When someone we care about is struggling, it’s easy to slide from caring… into carrying. We talk about the subtle ways this shows up in relationships, work, and family — and how many of us quietly pick up emotional weight that was never actually ours to hold.

I share a simple way to notice when it’s happening, one question that can help you put the “backpack” back down, and what you can do with the energy you get back when you stop trying to solve everyone else’s life.

If you’re someone who listens deeply, cares a lot, and sometimes feels emotionally drained by other people’s situations — this conversation might hit home.

If you want company, press play. 🎧