I hear a lot about how people's partners are not "checking enough boxes". I think there is a misunderstanding in todays culture that we should match with a partner who fulfills every need of ours. We forget that if we are going into relationship whole, then a partner is ADDITIVE to our life experience. If we have family, friends, hobbies, passions...a partner can provide a source of love for us that these things do not, but they aren't meant to be our only source of fulfillment.
This really resonates with me, and I agree with so much of what you’re sharing. When you ask, “What’s happening in relationships that concerns you?” I can’t help but reflect on a few things I’ve noticed. It feels like there’s a growing fear of commitment, fueled in part by the paradox of choice—especially with dating apps. There’s this constant sense that something (or someone) better might be just a swipe away, which makes it hard for people to fully invest in the person in front of them.
And even when people do get into relationships, I’ve noticed a tendency to bail at the first sign of difficulty. It’s as if challenges are seen as proof that the relationship isn’t “right” or that the person isn’t “the one.” But the truth is, there’s no such thing as a perfect person or a perfect relationship. Our greatest loves will inevitably bring up our deepest triggers and traumas—that’s part of the deal. Teaching people that healthy love doesn’t mean the absence of conflict, but rather the presence of commitment, communication, and growth, feels so important. Disagreements and challenges aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities to deepen intimacy and understanding.
That said, I’m also incredibly hopeful. I’m so excited to see more people becoming conscious of their childhoods, their patterns, and their wounds—and recognizing relationships as a space for healing and growth. While it’s not universal, I do see a shift happening. Those who are stepping into relationships are doing so with more intention, more depth, and a willingness to truly show up. They’re looking beyond surface-level compatibility and embracing the kind of love that’s raw, real, and deeply fulfilling.
It’s beautiful to witness, and it gives me so much hope for what’s possible when we approach love with open hearts and open minds.
This really hits home. Technology makes love feel transactional, but real connection takes discomfort, patience, and presence. I love how you frame it as something we have to embody—not outsource. Excited to hear more about your protocol.
I hear a lot about how people's partners are not "checking enough boxes". I think there is a misunderstanding in todays culture that we should match with a partner who fulfills every need of ours. We forget that if we are going into relationship whole, then a partner is ADDITIVE to our life experience. If we have family, friends, hobbies, passions...a partner can provide a source of love for us that these things do not, but they aren't meant to be our only source of fulfillment.
Completely agree with this, Annalisa! A partner isn't meant to do it all.
This really resonates with me, and I agree with so much of what you’re sharing. When you ask, “What’s happening in relationships that concerns you?” I can’t help but reflect on a few things I’ve noticed. It feels like there’s a growing fear of commitment, fueled in part by the paradox of choice—especially with dating apps. There’s this constant sense that something (or someone) better might be just a swipe away, which makes it hard for people to fully invest in the person in front of them.
And even when people do get into relationships, I’ve noticed a tendency to bail at the first sign of difficulty. It’s as if challenges are seen as proof that the relationship isn’t “right” or that the person isn’t “the one.” But the truth is, there’s no such thing as a perfect person or a perfect relationship. Our greatest loves will inevitably bring up our deepest triggers and traumas—that’s part of the deal. Teaching people that healthy love doesn’t mean the absence of conflict, but rather the presence of commitment, communication, and growth, feels so important. Disagreements and challenges aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities to deepen intimacy and understanding.
That said, I’m also incredibly hopeful. I’m so excited to see more people becoming conscious of their childhoods, their patterns, and their wounds—and recognizing relationships as a space for healing and growth. While it’s not universal, I do see a shift happening. Those who are stepping into relationships are doing so with more intention, more depth, and a willingness to truly show up. They’re looking beyond surface-level compatibility and embracing the kind of love that’s raw, real, and deeply fulfilling.
It’s beautiful to witness, and it gives me so much hope for what’s possible when we approach love with open hearts and open minds.
This really hits home. Technology makes love feel transactional, but real connection takes discomfort, patience, and presence. I love how you frame it as something we have to embody—not outsource. Excited to hear more about your protocol.
Thank you so much for reading it! I appreciate your reflections too! And I’m excited to share it! coming soon…
I needed to read this. I waste so much time scrolling gossip and tv shows news and updates. Silly and fun but not worth it after a few minutes.
Thank you
Thank you for this. Your writing is meeting the moment.