Are you Addicted to Approval?

Signs of being addicted to approval include:

You are very aware of the expectations of others. They also affect how you feel about yourself.

You are constantly worried about how others view you / what they are thinking about you.

You choose NOT to do things that others don’t approve of for fear of judgment and rejection.

You DO things you don’t want to do because you fear others making fun or you, putting you down, or talking about it.

You feel anxious and upset if you think you have upset or irritated someone – and desperately try to make things right.

You think the views and opinions of others are more informed and valuable than yours.

You agree when others criticize and put you down. Then you start to attack and feel ashamed of yourself.

You reject yourself if other people reject you.

TJ

Myths about Soul Mates

1. The relationship should be natural, easy and uncomplicated:

The truth is that all relationships take time, effort, commitment and energy. You need to make time for each other, to do fun things together, to work on communication, and to learn to negotiate and compromise.


2. The relationship should be conflict free:

Because we are individuals and unique we all disagree with other from time to time, so conflict is natural, and is not something to fear. In fact, conflict can force us to confront our differences, and to grow as individuals, and as couples too.


3. Soul mates are romantic:

Real life is not the movies, and love can be expressed in countless different ways, and still be genuine. Look out for all the signs that show your partner cares, and don’t be disappointed if they’re not “the stereotype”. Don’t try to force them to be someone they cannot be.

4. You should always see things the same way and have the same opinions, outlooks and beliefs:

You both have different backgrounds and your own ways of seeing the world, so you’re going to differ in the way you look at life. That does not have to be a problem – it’s healthy to be different, and approach things from different directions.

5. My soul mate will always like and love me:

Consideration, respect, and a concern for your partner are evidence of a loving relationship. However, being rude and disrespectful or irresponsible are not endearing qualities that build relationships. Instead, we need to give ourselves to others – as it’s not “all about me”.

TJ