I always have to drive, if we meet up!

[justneed5mins]

Three of us have been friends since high school/secondary school.

2 of us moved to the next town. 20 min max drive.

I drive, the other two, can drive, but choose not too, so don’t have a car.

We are each other’s children’s god parents.

We used to do a lot together.

Over the last few years, I’ve tried planning lots of things with them and the children. Always excuses- that’s ok, I take my children anyways!

They only ever want to meet up, if it’s just us 3. Again that is ok. They always want to eat at the same place- lovely little place, nice atmosphere, but I live the furthest away from it.

But I’m always expected to drive, I will pick one up, other side of town to me. Then collect the other one- who lives further than the restaurant. I will then drop everyone home!

Very rarely, will someone pay for parking which can be up to £5- depending on day we go. Or get me a drink etc.

When I suggest somewhere half way, or in my town- the one in the old town, can’t get there. So will drop out.

We are nearly 40. I honestly don’t want to be everyone’s taxi.

AIBU, in wanting to just meet half way and everyone agreed!

I wouldn’t mind, if we took it in turns in towns- but it never happens!

YANBU for being fed up of it because it’s very selfish and demanding on their part, but it’s your fault for enabling it. Either you want to see these people and are willing to act as taxi to make it happen, or you’re not that fussed about seeing them in which case you don’t offer them a lift. If the friendship fizzles out because they cba to make an effort that tells you everything you need to know.

You need to make a stand. If that's the plan of meeting place say you will meet them there but can't give lifts. Say you are having a drink yourself so won't be bringing the car.

Next time you meet up you say

“I’m going to be coming from work/an appointment etc and will be very short on time so I’ll have to meet you there.”

You also get a backbone and start saying things like “Do one of you want to get the parking today.”

Dont drive.

The answer is simple. The hardest thing is exacting it. Practice and rehearse what you will say - out loud - your mind does something different when you verbalise words.

Dont apologise! Dont say - im sorry but im not driving - YOU'RE NOT SORRY.

You'll have to make your own way, I'm not driving to pick everyone up and drop them off AS ALWAYS. I'm fed up being the taxi. You'll have to make your own way. (if you take your car or not is up to you, but dont be tempted to give everyone lifts when youre there.)

Dont hide it, they have taken advantage for too long

stop saying yes to going to the other town then! Say “hmmm no I’m bored of driving as I never get to have a drink” then see what they say.