RELATIONSHIP STRUGGLES

We are relational beings; so much of our structure, industries, technology, and even medical care revolves around the delicate bonds between people and the way we communicate.

It often feels essential to our everyday sense of well-being and how we manage to function in the world.

When relationships break down—across any area of life—they can stay with us, leave lasting wounds, and create a sense of fear when we consider forming new bonds.

I'm writing this with work and friendships in mind, without even touching on the romantic side of relationships.

Do we pay more attention to the drama and distress of romantic relationships because, as humans, we naturally lean toward caring and loving in that way?

The special bonds we form at work and in friendships can sometimes be overlooked, even though they give us safety and support. When these connections break down, the impact can sometimes be deeper than a romantic encounter.

Do we take these "nervous system" relationships for granted, only realising how good they were once they are gone?

The friend who always offers the pep talk when you're feeling low, or the colleague who makes your workday so much lighter—these connections can be invaluable.

When we meet people who might, at first, seem to play only a small part in our lives, their influence can be profound.

It's often these day-to-day or week-to-week encounters that bring a sense of calm and safety—connections that should not be disregarded.

The only thing I’m sure of is that change will arrive, and relationships will shift, move, and sometimes break down. It takes constant work to keep them afloat when we are all living in our own minds, dealing with private storms.

Do we ever truly feel like we are not alone? Or are we all just wandering through the world inside our heads most of the time?

What we see is only the tip of the iceberg in someone else’s reality and perception.