Navigating Competing Needs in a Relationship

Jen & I talk about having competing needs while I was visiting her, and what came up for me, and how we navigated having uncomfortable feelings. We look at this through the lens of neurodivergence (Autism, HSP, ADHD and PDA). We also explore the difficulty I had as a neurodivergent person assessing if I had a good time on the trip or not. We also look at where we blended well and what we will do differently next time.

CO-HOST

Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC

HIGHLIGHTS

Navigating shifts in relationships can be challenging, but there are strategies and tools that can help. By being proactive and intentional, we can build stronger, more resilient relationships that can weather the storms of change. Some specific strategies and tools for navigating shifts in relationships include: - Communication: Open and honest communication is key to navigating shifts in relationships.

This includes

· Active listening, expressing needs and boundaries, and being willing to compromise and negotiate.

· Self-reflection: Taking time to reflect on our own needs, values, and goals can help us navigate shifts in relationships more effectively. This includes identifying our own triggers and patterns, and being willing to take responsibility for our own actions and emotions.

· Seeking support: Building a support network of friends, family, or professionals can provide us with the resources and guidance we need to navigate shifts in relationships. This includes seeking out therapy, coaching, or other forms of support when needed.

· Practicing self-care: Taking care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally can help us navigate shifts in relationships more effectively. This includes getting enough sleep, exercise, and healthy food, as well as engaging in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment.

· Cultivating gratitude: Focusing on the positive aspects of our relationships and expressing gratitude for the people in our lives can help us navigate shifts in relationships with a sense of perspective and appreciation.

Navigating shifts in relationships can be tough, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed or uncertain. It's important to recognize that these challenges are normal and can be overcome with the right tools and support. By acknowledging and addressing these difficulties, we can strengthen our relationships and build deeper connections with those we care about.

Some common challenges people face during times of change include

· Uncertainty and fear of the unknown

· Loss of trust or communication breakdowns

· Competing needs and priorities

· Differences in values or goals

· Resistance to change or difficulty adapting

· Emotional triggers or unresolved issues from the past

During times of change, it can be tempting to withdraw or put up walls to protect ourselves. However, by embracing transparency and vulnerability, we can create a deeper sense of connection and understanding with those around us. By sharing our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, we can build trust, encourage empathy, and foster growth and learning. This can help reduce conflict and misunderstandings, and create a sense of safety and security for ourselves and others. Ultimately, by being open and honest, we can strengthen our relationships and build deeper connections with those we care about.

· Building trust and intimacy: When we share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others, we create a deeper sense of connection and understanding.

· Encouraging empathy and compassion: By being vulnerable, we allow others to see our humanity and can inspire empathy and compassion in others.

· Fostering growth and learning: When we are transparent about our struggles and challenges, we create opportunities for growth and learning, both for ourselves and for others.

· Reducing conflict and misunderstandings: By being open and honest, we can avoid misunderstandings and conflicts that can arise from miscommunication or hidden agendas.

· Creating a sense of safety and security: When we are transparent and vulnerable, we create a safe space for ourselves and others to be authentic and true to ourselves.

PODCAST HOST

Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

CO-HOST BIO

Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC has been a psychotherapist for 20 years. She specializes in helping Highly Sensitive People thrive in love, work, and parenting Highly Sensitive Children. Jen is passionate about using mindfulness and compassion-based approaches to ameliorate human suffering.

LINKS

Jen's Links

Email: [email protected]

Jen's website: https://heartfulnessconsulting.com/

Patricia's Links

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Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com