Ever feel like you’re the one holding it all together—at work, at home, in your relationships—and yet you’re the most exhausted person in the room? That’s not weakness. That’s compassion fatigue, and it might be silently draining your joy, your energy, and even your sense of self.

In this episode of The Really Personal Podcast, Mary Ann Addis breaks down why good people get tired of being good people—and how to shift from over-functioning and guilt to boundaries, clarity, and peace. We’ll talk about the emotional labor of always being the “reliable one,” why empathy without limits becomes a trap, and the small but powerful changes you can make to stay soft without being stepped on.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why am I so damn tired when I’m just trying to do the right thing?”—this conversation is for you.

✨ Want to go deeper? Read the full shownotes and connect with Mary Ann on Instagram @mary.ann.life for more conversations on mindset, relationships, and living with purpose.

Tune in. Take a breath. And let’s get personal.

Takeaways

• Nearly three out of five adults feel emotionally drained.
• Compassion fatigue affects anyone who carries emotional weight without rest.
• Being kind shouldn't mean being depleted.
• Setting boundaries is essential for emotional well-being.
• Rest is a right, not a reward.
• You can be kind and still prioritize yourself.
• Understanding should be a bridge, not a trap.
• Every no to what drains you is a yes to what sustains you.
• You are not an emotional airbag for others.
• Goodness that costs you your joy is not true goodness.

Chapters
00:00 The Emotional Toll of Being Good
03:46 Understanding Compassion Fatigue
09:02 The Importance of Boundaries
14:56 Redefining Goodness and Self-Care
16:35 Practical Strategies for Emotional Well-Being
31:20 Conclusion: Embracing Your Worth

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