The Hidden Cost of Being Everyone's Support System When everyone needs you, don't forget the person you are. There is a difference between being important in someone's life and becoming responsible for holding their entire life together. Some people become the person everyone calls when something goes wrong. They are expected to understand, arrange, solve, support, forgive and remain available. When someone needs money, they are remembered. When a family decision becomes difficult, they are consulted. When a friend is struggling, they become the listener. When a responsibility has no obvious owner, it somehow finds its way to them. At first, this position can feel meaningful. Being trusted creates a sense of belonging. Being useful gives a person a role. Knowing that someone depends on you can make ordinary days feel significant. But something can change quietly. The person who once helped because they wanted to begins helping because nobody else will. Their own plans becom...