Sometimes, being an empath can feel like it's draining the life out of you. But guess what? It doesn't have to be that way.Too often, empaths use their empathic nature as an excuse for their lack of boundaries and co-dependence in personal and professional spheres. If you find yourself using being an empath as a crutch to avoid establishing boundaries, it's time for brutal honesty. The inability to establish boundaries often stems from childhood experiences and, in many cases, past trauma. Repeating the mantra "But I can't help it, I just feel everything!" won't serve you, and it's not truthful.