I swallowed the pill about 18 months ago and have gotten myself to a place that I'm happy with. It feels great - moved to a new city, in good shape, dating a few different girls.

My problem arises around this time of year - my family dynamic was so horribly blue-pill growing up that it pains me. You know the situation - mother who ruled the household with an iron fist, defeated BB dad, even an older brother who is helplessly lost at this point.

After 18 months of hard work and attitude changes of my own, I'm clearly emerging as a leader in the family. My problem is that it's getting to a point where my own family is beginning to be a bit dependent on me and it's making me resent them. I even had one newer friend say "you're so much different than the rest of your family".

I know some people will say they totally cut themselves off from their own family but I'm not willing to do that. I love them, they've all been good to me, it's just so painful to witness all the time.

How have those of you emerging from similar situations tried to balance love for family versus independence and consistent improvement?

Happy Thanksgiving bros