Quite open to people being blunt here. I’m quite self aware and know that sometimes I need to be told when I need to have a word with myself!!
Basically, I just feel that I need to stop making such an effort with people (friends) over Christmas and in general throughout the year.
I have a handful of ‘proper friends’ who I tend do do all my socialising with. Known them twenty years or so..... and a wider circle of friends/ associates, I enjoy spending time with when a larger social gathering calls, but don’t necessarily have their mobile numbers etc. Met mainly through work and other friends.
This year, like every year, I do the Christmas thing and write all my cards/ send all my emails/ take pleasure in choosing and giving the presents and secret Santa, and fully immerse myself in being the social butterfly that I am most certainly NOT usually- finding time to get round to see everyone, nip round for cuppas and chats with old friends. Year on year, I’m becoming more aware that my efforts are not always appreciated or reciprocated. I’m a full time manager with a very demanding job working 50+ hours a week. I have a disabled DS at home too and some health issues myself so it is a real effort on my part if I’m honest when I’d mostly like to get home and curl up in bed and sleep/ spend some time with my own family who often miss out on my time with work. This year, I’m particularly p**sed off if I’m honest. Hardly anyone of my friends has bothered to send me a card back. Some of my highly strung friends are a bit put out that I’ve made some new year plans that only involve family and haven’t taken them up on their offer and are being a bit funny. My present off my longest oldest friend is a load of bits I know she got for her 40th last year thrown in a bag. I’m not bothered about presents. But this just shows last minute thought and little care. I’m the first to send the obligatory ‘happy new year!’ Texts as midnight. Half the time, I never get them back. I am not daft. I know people have families and plans of their own. We are all busy. But is it unreasonable to assume that people you love and care for should find at least ten mins over the festive period to give a shit and write a bloody card/ send a text? It’s all very one sided and I feel next year I genuinely shouldn’t bother with the effort and just focus on my family (who are amazing). Should I Ba Humbug them all next year???