How people make you feel…

People that love you, care about how they make you feel.

The end.

— Unknown 

This is a very interesting discussion. On the surface, I agree. And I spent far too much time around people who made me feel bad (including some family). But after spending years in therapy and in relationship skills/group therapy workshops, I also know it’s not that simple. We can be boxed in my upbringing. We can box people out because of upbringing. We can rely on outdated coping mechanisms because of upbringing. And all of these things can prevent us from loving others (and ourselves) properly. For example, I used to go pretty silent and sort of paralyzed when I felt hurt, which is the most unhelpful thing ever for a relationship. And so I needed to learn, and did learn fortunately, how to articulate what was going on for me, and make requests on my behalf. What a game changer for your partner and for the health and happiness of your relationship(s). Just sayin’ ;) Hugs and good luck. XO

Blessings,

Chatgirl