The first thing is to get a place of your own.

The second thing is to take a break from your cousins.

Can you get a “regular” job in the career you just left? Yes you’d be working for other people, but the regular paycheck should put a bounce in your step while you regroup about your own business. Oftentimes we have to scrap what we’ve had so the new creation can be bigger and better than ever.

Hey, I hear you about comparisons. Especially when what your family is doing is to an Epic Scale. I write a book ~ sister publishes one and gets a book series deal. I get a following on YouTube ~ other family member makes an award winning documentary. I graduate from college ~ cousin is a doctor doing groundbreaking genetic research. What else? Oh yes, son is at the top of his sport on a national level ~ another family member makes it on a “World” level in a similar sport. It’s like, if I have a fantasy or a hobby, watch out!! I will be outdone! I know what it is to want something that’s just “MINE”!

So get something “YOURS” and tell no one.

Relationships (love, friendship): Remember (maybe) the Daria episode where Daria studies her cute, attractive sister and takes physical notes? Then she copies her and becomes popular (much to the sister’s chagrin!) What can I say, people are like magpies! It’s sad, really. But ~ see what everyone else is wearing, how they talk, what they do. Copy. Consider a doctoral thesis on it. You might be surprised! Good luck!!

• This reply was modified 10 years, 3 months ago by Inky.