I have a relative who’s son, about 10 year old, seems to be fond of me. He is an avid talker. He will talk about anything and everything with me. Problem is, he doesn’t understand that I’m an introverted piece of shit. Even though I like being with him when I feel like talking, other times I can’t match his energy and feel exhausted. To just ignore what he’s saying and stop responding all of a sudden makes me feel bad. He’s really a good kid. How do I tell him to give me a break without hurting him?

  • troed@fedia.io
    101·
    2 days ago

    Might he recognize something in you that applies to him as well? Not saying you’re on the spectrum, but my kids are and when they what to talk about their current special interests they can go on forever.

    I’d say be blatantly honest. You’re happy to listen, but sometimes you simply cannot because you need your alone time as well.

    • CarbonatedPastaSauce@lemmy.worldEnglish
      2·
      2 days ago

      I think that’s just kids. They all go through phases where they never. shut. up. Perfectly normal. Some of them carry that into adulthood, unfortunately.