In this episode, we delve into the complexities of communication, particularly focusing on why people often fail to express their true thoughts and feelings. We explore various reasons for this behaviour, such as the fear of upsetting others or the desire to be liked. Our conversation highlights the tension between honesty and kindness, emphasizing that while it’s important to be truthful, it’s equally crucial to consider the feelings of others. We discuss the challenges of navigating these conversations, especially in personal relationships, and the importance of finding a balance between being clear and being considerate.

We also touch on the concept of 'mind reading' in relationships, where individuals expect their partners or friends to understand their feelings without explicit communication. we stress the significance of clarity in communication and the need for practice in having difficult conversations. As usual, we conclude with practical advice on how to approach these discussions, including the importance of timing and the potential benefits of being honest while remaining kind.

Takeaways

We often avoid saying what we mean due to fear of upsetting others.

Finding a balance between honesty and kindness is crucial.

Mind reading in relationships can lead to misunderstandings.

Clear communication can prevent unnecessary conflict.

Practicing assertiveness in small matters can build confidence for bigger conversations.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the tendency we all have to perceive situations in black and white terms, often overlooking the nuanced middle ground. This is a natural process, our brains are hard-wired to keep us safe and a part of that is to categorise things as safe or unsafe. We discuss how this thinking can lead to unrealistic expectations, particularly in relationships and personal experiences, and how we can work to pull ourselves back to the messy middle.

Our conversation emphasises the importance of emotional regulation, effective communication, and the need to lower expectations to find balance, ease and happiness in life.

Takeaways

We have a tendency to see things in extremes.

Our brains categorise experiences to keep us safe.

Judgment stems from a need for survival.

Catastrophising can ruin otherwise good days.

Expectations can lead to disappointment during holidays.

Communication is key in relationships.

Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary.

Emotional regulation helps in avoiding black and white thinking.

Finding the middle ground is essential for happiness.

Lowering expectations can lead to greater satisfaction.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the complexities of feeling grown up, whether we feel different than we did when we were younger, the impact of our inner child, and the cultural perceptions of ageing, particularly for women.

We discuss the challenges of defining ourselves beyond societal labels, the responsibilities of adulthood, and the generational differences in perceptions of growing up. We also emphasise the importance of embracing eccentricities and finding joy in ageing while navigating the messinesses of grown-up life.

Takeaways

Many people feel they haven't changed much since their twenties.

The inner child often feels neglected in adulthood.

Cultural expectations can pressure women regarding ageing.

Ageing is often associated with loss of freedom and increased responsibility.

Generational differences affect perceptions of adulthood.

Maintaining friendships across generations can help to blur age boundaries.

Embracing eccentricities can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Defining oneself beyond societal roles is challenging but necessary.

The fear of ageing often stems from societal pressures.

Finding joy in ageing requires a shift in perspective.

Adrienne and Lucy can be contacted through their websites:

www.presenceofmind.life (Lucy)

www.adriennekirk.uk (Adrienne)

Find us at: www.adriennekirk.uk or www.presenceofmind.life

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.