Trust and the Bungee Cord

Trust with an open heart that things are possible. When we walk in the world from fear, speculation, avoidance and distrust, the baggage is like bungee cords that pull us backwards. Hold the vision of what you do want, ask for it, trust with an open heart; at least then you'll have a shot at reaching your vision.

Dear Gail....

Thought you'd enjoy this mini-conversation I shared with a friend about polyamory.

Enjoy!
Gail

Dear Gail,

How do you do it? How do you manage a poly relationship? I am watching friends fall apart because they tried it and its just hard...even for me because I am friends on both ends.

Sincerely,
Heartbroken

Dear Heartbroken,

How is this different than a mono-relationship; isn't it the same pain?

It's true that polyamory has its own challenges and learning opportunities. But in my opinion, leading a healthy, successful poly relationship takes many of the same basic skill sets that you need in order to lead a healthy, successful monogamous relationship. In my 20 years of coaching, I have seen many people who just flat don't have the basic skills to live a successful, thriving relationship.

Here's one example. When the sh** hits the fan, I often see people make one of 3 basic communication mistakes:
1. confuse stories for observations (ex: she's mad at me vs/ she hasn't made eye contact with me today) - we can avoid misunderstandings if we - as Krishnamurthi suggests - seek the intelligence of observing without judging.
2. confuse feelings and needs for thoughts and judgements (ex: i feel like he should spend more time with me if he loved me) - when we separate our feelings (sad, disappointed, unhappy) and needs (because I want companionship) from our thoughts, we have a better chance of asking for what we want in a way others can hear (ex: i've been sad wanting more companionship, would you spend 2 hours with me tonight?)
3. not make clear doable requests to meet their needs

These simple, common habits can make or break a conversation.

Now take folks without basic relationship and healing skills, throw them into a poly scenario where emotions are even MORE likely to be stimulated, and where transparent, generative, needs-based conversation is even more vital, and you've got a recipe for disaster alright! This is why they pay me the big-bucks to do relationship coaching. *wink*

With a few fundamental skills and practices, I believe many more polyamorous and monogamous relationships would thrive.

If you'd like more information about polyamory, or if you'd like a free consultation toward an ongoing coaching relationship, call Gail toll-free 1.877.535.5438.