Experiencing unrequited love or feeling like you're never the priority in a relationship can be incredibly exhausting. The constant hope to be chosen, only to face disappointment, often leads to emotional fatigue and self-questioning. From my own experience, what helps is acknowledging these feelings instead of suppressing them. It's important to remember that your worth is not determined by someone else's choices or willingness to love you back. One approach I've found helpful is redirecting energy towards self-care and personal growth during these draining moments. Journaling can be a powerful tool to process emotions and understand patterns that might contribute to repeated feelings of being 'never the first choice.' I've also found that setting healthy boundaries—such as limiting contact or emotionally detaching when needed—protects mental well-being. Additionally, talking to close friends or a counselor provides validation and new perspectives. They can remind you of your inherent value and help identify any self-sabotaging behaviors unknowingly contributing to these experiences. Love should never feel like a battle of sabotage or second-guessing yourself. By nurturing self-love and patience, you create space for healthier relationships when the time is right. Remember, it's not draining because you are weak—it's draining because the situation is emotionally demanding. Allow yourself grace as you navigate these feelings and know that you are deserving of reciprocal, supportive love.