Clarity On Fire

Welcome to another episode of Dear Krachel, a monthly advice segment where we answer listener questions about life, career, relationships, existential angst, and anything that helps you become a more whole, fulfilled version of yourself. If you squint a little, the theme of this month ended up being “deal breakers”—in friendships, at work, and in romantic relationships. We answered questions from: Haley, who’s feeling hurt that she’s the one who always initiates communication with her friends. How can she ask for more balance in her friendships (and is there a bigger red flag here)? Worth More or Want More, who just hit the 6-month mark at her first “real” job. She’s BARELY breaking even after paying for rent, groceries, and bills, and wants to ask for a 5% raise when she hits her 1-year mark. Is this a crazy ask? And what should she do if they turn her down? Claire, who was recently dating a guy who she didn’t align with on some important issues, one being that he’s homophobic and she’s queer. She wants to