The Emotional Olympics of Being the Last Single One
Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts
Let’s get real for a second: burnout isn’t just about your inbox or your endless to-do list. Sometimes, it’s the emotional weight of living a life that doesn’t fit the traditional script—and having to defend it every damn time you show up to family functions.
That’s exactly what this bonus episode is about. I’m officially the last single cousin standing. Weddings, engagements, baby showers—you name it, I’m surrounded by them. And as much as I love my family, walking into these events often feels like running a marathon in emotional armor.
The Hidden Burnout of Family Pressure
If you’re single and ambitious in your 30s (hi, same), you know the drill. Comments like:
“When are you going to settle down?”
“Don’t wait too long—you’ll regret it.”
Or my personal favorite: “You’ll know you want kids when you have them.” 🙄
It’s not just the comments—it’s the anticipation of them. That low-level bracing-yourself energy that eats away at your peace before you’ve even walked in the door. And honestly? That anticipation alone can be just as exhausting as anything actually said.
Am I Behind?
Here’s the truth: sometimes I wonder. Am I missing something? Am I going to regret the choices I’ve made? That pressure is real. But so is this: I like my life. I like myself. I don’t need a partner or kids to validate my choices. I know I don’t want children. And I refuse to settle for a relationship that isn’t aligned, no matter how “behind” that might make me look on paper.
Team Black Sheep
I’ve always joked that I’m the black sheep of the family because I went to a different college than everyone else. But in reality? It runs deeper. I chose entrepreneurship over traditional security. I chose freedom over fitting in. And yes, I’m also the only single one left.
That doesn’t make me wrong. It makes me me. And if you’re navigating the same pressures, let this be your reminder: your life doesn’t have to look like theirs to be valid.
Burnout Isn’t Just Work-Related
This is why I’m folding my dating stories and “you’re too picky” rants into the Burnout Proof Podcast. Because burnout shows up everywhere—not just in your business. It shows up in family dynamics, in relationships, in the pressure to check boxes you don’t even want.
And if staying “picky” means protecting your peace, your energy, and your standards? Then stay picky.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
Want the unfiltered version, complete with stories and sass? Tune into the bonus episode: The Emotional Olympics of Being the Last Single One.
