Ugh - stress

My whole "change of life" has been, in part, to reduce day-to-day stress. And, for the most part, it has. But recently there are two huge stresses that are really taking their toll.

1) Money. I've been covering 100% of utilities for awhile. On a salary, no probs. On unemployment, prob. I want to talk about it, but apparently, confrontation cest'ne pas bien. 2) Big fight with one of my best friends. She wanted me to validate her point in an argument. But the reality is, she had unreasonably expectations.

A true Leo would stand up for her rights and beliefs. So why can't I? I feel like I need to minimize my financial needs with the roomate and apologize for my response to my friend.

I guess what I TRULY need is to strike the balance between compassion and self-respect. How soon can that lesson be learned? How soon can it be put to use?