“…it isn’t difficult to be right. It’s just that you will be right and alone.”

In this episode of We Can Do Hard Things, Abby, Glennon, and Esther Perel talk about how relationships evolve during challenges like pandemics. They emphasize that most arguments stem from underlying issues like power dynamics, and that self-care and acknowledging past trauma can strengthen relationships. By recognizing these hidden patterns, we can transform arguments into opportunities for understanding and build stronger connections. Abby and Glennon ask Esther what constitutes a relationship that feels alive rather than surviving and examine the ways in which imagination can bring a sense of aliveness and contentment. This episode also emphasizes the positive impact self-care and recognition of past trauma can have on currently existing relationships in your life.

At rooh, we highly recommend this episode because:

• The conversation sheds light on the fact that most conflicts are about the same underlying issues about power, control, and respect. Esther encourages us to recognize this and use it to change the direction of our conversations to enrich and bring understanding to our relationships rather than further discontentment.
• Esther, Abby, and Glennon discuss how to take responsibility for our own sense of satisfaction and control in our relationships instead of waiting for someone else to grant us those feelings. They discuss how doing so can allow us to be more respectful and understanding towards the other person our relationships.
• This episode offers a unique perspective on imagination and using it to rediscover the joy of connections in our relationships. They discuss how it brings novelty and breaks the monotony of life to bring a new sense of excitement and curiosity in any relationship.