My partner and I have fallen into this pattern where I'm always the one checking in on everyone's feelings, remembering to ask about their rough day, initiating the conversations about us. They appreciate it but don't reciprocate, and I'm starting to feel like the relationship's emotional caretaker rather than an equal partner.
More people experience this than they realize.
The invisible work of tending to emotional connection has become unequally distributed, creating resentment and disconnection.
“Where Are You with Emotional Labor in Love?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.