Someone at work asked again why I looked tired, and I gave the short answer I’ve been practicing, something about a rough shift, nothing more. Used to explain the whole thing standing right there, more than anyone needed. Now I just give the short version and change the subject, usually to the weather or whatever’s for lunch.
Kept that up through the last stretch of night shifts and it held up better than expected. Sketchbook stayed in my bag the whole time too, pulled out on break instead of scrolling, even a few lines helps clear my head before the next round starts.
Not sure I’ll keep the short answer forever, but for now it’s doing its job. Feels less like I owe everyone the whole story.