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The Dangerous Illusion of “Being Yourself” in Relationships

Updated: Aug 12, 2024



In the realm of romance, there is a pervasive belief that threatens to undermine the very foundations of any meaningful relationship—the idea that you can simply "be yourself." This concept, while seemingly harmless, carries within it a hidden peril that can lead to dissatisfaction, disillusionment, and ultimately, the breakdown of the relationship. But where does this belief come from, and why is it so deeply ingrained in our psyche?


The Origin of the Illusion

The belief that you can be yourself in a romantic relationship often stems from the most profound love many people experience—the unconditional love received from their primary caregiver, usually their mother. This relationship, forged in the early years of life, sets the benchmark for how we perceive and approach love in our adult relationships.

For those fortunate enough to have had a nurturing and supportive mother, this love is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it instills a strong sense of self-worth, teaching you that your feelings matter and that you have a right to express your needs. This is a healthy foundation that empowers you to engage with the world confidently.


However, this very experience can also create a dangerous blueprint. You may unconsciously expect that your romantic relationships will mirror the unconditional love you received from your mother. You may believe that your partner will love you for who you are, flaws and all, without any effort on your part to grow, change, or adapt. And therein lies the problem.


The Reality of Romantic Relationships

The fundamental difference between the love of a mother and the love of a romantic partner is that the latter is not a birthright—it is a privilege. Unlike the unconditional bond with a mother, a romantic relationship requires effort, dedication, and constant nurturing. It is akin to a job, where you must work hard to maintain the connection, grow together, and keep the love alive.


In the same way that you would approach a difficult client with tact and diplomacy, you must approach your partner with sensitivity and respect. This means not blurting out every thought that crosses your mind, not throwing tantrums, and certainly not being disrespectful. Communication and active listening are key. You need to understand your role as a boyfriend, husband, or father, and take those responsibilities seriously.


The Importance of Honor and Responsibility

Being in a relationship means embodying the qualities of a provider, protector, and confidant. It requires you to be a man of honor, someone who upholds the integrity of the relationship above all else. This means that you cannot afford to flirt with temptation or entertain thoughts of infidelity. Running off with the waitress from Hooters or flirting with someone else is not just a betrayal of your partner—it is a betrayal of the commitment you have made to the relationship.


In essence, the idea that you can simply be yourself in a relationship is a fallacy. The only time you can truly be yourself—without filters, without compromise—is when you are alone. In a relationship, you must constantly strive to be the best version of yourself, one that is considerate, understanding, and above all, respectful of the bond you share with your partner.


Conclusion

Relationships are not built on the premise of “being yourself” in the way you might with a mother’s unconditional love. Instead, they thrive on mutual respect, effort, and the understanding that love is not a given—it is earned. The sooner we dispel the dangerous illusion of being yourself without consequence, the sooner we can embrace the reality of what it takes to build and maintain a healthy, fulfilling relationship.



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