Why drive? Post it in the Cellar. :)

Is there a difference between support and validation? Sometimes I get the feeling that people don't want others' insight, they just want to hear that they're right about something.

I quit asking for validation from others directly. My problem is that I still seek it, but now I cloak it in self-deprecation. I say "does this suck?" when the only answer I care to hear is "of course it doesn't suck -- you are awesome".

Praise and derision make me equally uncomfortable, and I don't LIKE to hear either. But I continually seek them out. I crave attention of any kind, whether positive or negative, yet receiving attention makes me squirmy.

wolf, one to admit please.

My caveat: "I will support you in whatever you wish to do, or through any problems you are having, however, I do reserve the right to tell you when something is just damn stupid."

Just an update as it's about a month since I first raised these issues.

I've lost 9lbs so far at Weight Watchers. Lots to go, but I seem to be in a routine now and am steadily losing each week.

I fell off the wagon last week when I hurt my leg and got drunk on wine, but apart from that one night I haven't had a drink since 9 January. I gave up drink-fuelled smoking at the same time, so I seem to have cracked the lot all in one go.

I have a lot more money because of this three-pronged attack and am saving for a holiday next year and a suprise party for my Mum's 60th in September.

Needless to say I am feeling much more in control and subsequently happier. Thanks to those who offered support & suggestions - it did help break the cycle.

Well done Sundae Girl! Most impressive is that you didn't let the slip up with the wine convince you that you had failed and you might as well go the whole hog. You saw it for what it was - a temporary lapse. I admire you. Keep it up!

History has repeated itself.

I am hustling to get my resume ready for primetime. I will post more details as soon as I can. In the meantime, I'm officially the newest and hungriest job-seeker out there.

So sorry to hear that V.
Much support and good thoughts sent your way.

Sorry V!

But get back on that horse. You've done it before.

Oh, BigV! That is too bad! :(

How is the Seattle economy? Whatever it is, I'm sure a guy like you will find another job soon. :thumb:

Sorry V

Crap! Sorry V.

Well, that sucks. Somedays I have premonitions that I will have the same fate. For all our differences, I truly do wish you the best in this and that you get back up on your feet soon.

What little security we can muster can be so fleeting. :(