9781529032178

(Duaa Sulaimanylg6QT) #1

  • Saying (or thinking) “I’m not ready to commit”—but staying
    together nonetheless, sometimes for years.

  • Focusing on small imperfections in your partner: the way s/he
    talks, dresses, eats, or (fill in the blank) and allowing it to get
    in the way of your romantic feelings.

  • Pining after an ex-girlfriend/boyfriend—(the “phantom ex”—
    more on this later).

  • Flirting with others—a hurtful way to introduce insecurity
    into the relationship.

  • Not saying “I love you”—while implying that you do have
    feelings toward the other person.

  • Pulling away when things are going well (e.g., not calling for
    several days after an intimate date).

  • Forming relationships with an impossible future, such as with
    someone who is married.

  • “Checking out mentally” when your partner is talking to you.

  • Keeping secrets and leaving things foggy—to maintain your
    feeling of independence.

  • Avoiding physical closeness—e.g., not wanting to share the
    same bed, not wanting to have sex, walking several strides
    ahead of your partner.
    If you’re avoidant, these small everyday deactivating strategies are tools
    you unconsciously use to make sure the person that you love (or will love)
    won’t get in the way of your autonomy. But at the end of the day, these
    tools are standing in the way of you being happy in a relationship.
    The use of deactivating strategies alone is not enough to keep attachment
    at bay. They’re just the tip of the iceberg. As an avoidant, your mind is
    governed by overarching perceptions and beliefs about relationships that
    ensure a disconnect with your partner and get in the way of your happiness.

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