DATING
Discover connection, embrace joy, define your story.
Entering the realm of dating holds the promise of discovering a lifelong partner and love, yet the journey can be riddled with challenges – exhaustion, heartbreak, trust issues, and complicated relationships. In the vast sea of individuals seeking connections, finding a partner who shares your long-term vision can be a daunting task, with many navigating casual encounters and relationships moving faster than trust can be established.
Dating is an exploration, an inquiry into understanding what both you and your potential partner seek in a relationship. It involves deciphering whether both parties can meet each other's expectations, embracing strengths, acknowledging weaknesses, and recognizing frustrating habits. Choosing a forever partner demands a thorough understanding of the baggage each person carries, acknowledging past wounds and struggles, and deciding which baggage you are willing to help carry.
The ending of a relationship can evoke feelings of personal inadequacy, questioning whether you are enough, or if you will ever find “the one.” However, finding the right person ultimately involves being chosen by someone who aligns with your goals and values and who truly chooses you in return.
Discovering misalignments in values, relational skills, or personal preferences is a crucial aspect of dating. While ending a dating relationship can be difficult, it is an inherent part of the exploration process. The skills exercised in dating, such as boundary management, conflict resolution, and navigating differing goals, lay the foundation for a successful marriage. It is during the dating phase that these skills are honed, providing a smoother path for the work of relationship building.
If you find yourself in a dating relationship, grappling with the complexities and seeking to strengthen your connection, I’m here to help. I can guide you in learning strategies to protect your heart, identify red flags, manage conflicts, and determine if your dating relationship is ready to progress to the next level. I want to support you on your journey to a fulfilling and lasting connection.