Hey love,

Ever catch yourself in the same argument? Or feel that familiar urge to shut down, chase, or fix—even when you know better?

Your inner child might be behind the wheel. Again.

In this week’s episode of Love Is, I’m breaking down how childhood survival strategies sneak into our adult relationships, why they’re so sticky, and how to start choosing differently—without blaming your past.

Once you know who’s driving, you can gently take the keys back.

 

Want to go deeper? I created a free workbook to help you connect with your adaptive child—the part of you that learned to survive by shutting down, fixing, chasing, or perfecting. It’s gentle, eye-opening, and a great first step toward rewiring those old patterns.

➡️ Download the workbook (no email required)

 

Resources Referenced:

• Terry Real – the concept of the adaptive child

• “The quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives.” - Esther Perel 

• The 5-Second Pause – a simple practice to create space between trigger and reaction

 

💬 I'd love to hear what this episode stirred up for you— send me a voice note or an email: 

Email: [email protected] Leave a voice note: https://async.com/staceynherrera