I hear ya about the kissing ass thing... That is still something I struggle with..because I feel that they should have to work at this too!!
But I am starting...just starting to see that I need to do things for me... and if having a better relationship with someone is going to make me feel good then I will do it. But once you start focusing on yourself,she will wonder why your not after her all the time and maybe she will learn by your example how to take care of herself.. If you dont blow up when she brushes you off..she will start to change too...
It is both scary and freeing to take care of yourself first... but it takes some getting used to if you have never had someone care for you before..
Good Luck!!