What Scares You in Relationships?

scared couple in movie theater

Some of us barrel into relationships as if the very fact of being alone could cause severe itching.

Others are skittish, shying away from promising new people or finding ways to engage while subtly keep them at a distance. Ultimately, the skittishness takes a toll (barreling into relationships can wreak havoc too, but that’s for another post).

I’m a strong believer that most of the trouble in relationships is caused by fear: Fear of not being loved, of being taken for granted or taken advantage of, of being “found out” as not worth someone’s time, and the list goes on.

Are You On Emotional Autopilot?

Passengers in motionMany years ago when I lived in New York City, I helped a friend execute a brilliant gift idea for her mother’s birthday.

Because her mom lived far away, they couldn’t be together to celebrate, so my friend decided to send her something very special.

First, she made a giant sign that said HAPPY BIRTHDAY with her mom’s name on it.

Phase One complete.

Then she carried that enormous sign with her (on the subway, no less) to a series of recognizable New York City landmarks, and asked strangers to hold it up and wave while she took their picture. Read More