On our last episode, Dr. Rick Hanson and I began our conversation on how to find a long-term relationship by discussing intentions, psychological skills, and self-marketing strategies that bring us closer to finding someone who brings out the best in us.
This week, we expand our conversation to explore what traits to look for in a potential partner and in your dynamic with them. We discuss life growth curves, how to manage early conflict, healthy approaches for dealing with rejection, and how to support those still navigating a difficult search.
Key Topics:
- 0:00: Introduction
- 2:45: Basic green and red flags to look for in a partner
- 8:50: Pursuer-distancer dynamic
- 9:45: Shared growth curves–relationship as a process, not a person
- 12:50: Riding the river of practical daily life
- 19:25: Someone who brings out the best parts of you
- 25:25: Different kinds of romantic relationships
- 28:55: Rejection and feeling wanted
- 30:45: Asymmetry and power dynamics
- 34:40: Agency within the pain of rejection
- 40:05: Recognizing self-worth
- 45:00: Managing early conflict
- 51:50: The struggle to find a prospective partner
- 59:40: Recap
