How To Date: Communication - dating dos and don’ts
Feb 25, 2025
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Emma Reed-Turrell, a psychotherapist and author specializing in transactional psychology, joins the conversation about navigating early-stage dating communication. She emphasizes the crucial role self-esteem plays in how we connect. The discussion covers the pitfalls of people-pleasing and the blind spots that can affect relationships. Additionally, they explore the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in modern dating, while offering practical tips for clearer and kinder communication, all aimed at fostering genuine connections.
Effective and honest communication after a positive first date fosters genuine connections and helps individuals express their true feelings.
Understanding different communication styles enhances self-awareness and can significantly improve dating dynamics and interpersonal connections.
Recognizing harmful dating games, like ghosting and catastrophizing, is crucial for cultivating authentic relationships and prioritizing emotional safety.
Deep dives
Understanding PMS and Hormonal Health
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women, causing symptoms such as fatigue, cravings, and mood swings. The discussion highlights how these issues can be traced back to imbalances in hormone processing, particularly involving estrogen and the liver. A specific product, Estro Control, has been introduced to help manage these symptoms with its blend of science-backed herbal extracts aimed at women's hormonal health. This supplement is designed for women who are perimenopausal, offering an actionable solution for those experiencing the challenging effects of PMS.
Navigating Communication in Modern Dating
Effective communication is crucial in modern dating, yet many struggle with how to express their thoughts and feelings. The conversation emphasizes the need to avoid playing games and following arbitrary dating rules that can hinder authentic communication. Instead, individuals are encouraged to be open about their feelings, particularly after a positive first date, to foster genuine connections. This approach highlights the importance of being true to oneself and prioritizing honest communication over conforming to outdated dating norms.
Recognizing Communication Styles and Patterns
Communication styles significantly influence dating dynamics, and understanding these can lead to healthier interactions. The discussion categorizes individuals into different profiles, such as 'rock,' 'gladiator,' 'hustler,' and 'bridge,' each with unique communication traits. Recognizing one’s own style and its potential blind spots allows for improved self-awareness and can enhance dating experiences. This insight encourages individuals to not only reflect on their communication but also be mindful of their partner's style to foster better understanding and connection.
Identifying and Challenging Dating Games
The conversation addresses the harmful games often played in dating, such as catastrophizing or ghosting, which can derail potential relationships. By identifying these self-sabotaging behaviors, individuals gain insight into their own patterns, allowing for healthier approaches. The discussion stresses the importance of breaking free from these games to cultivate genuine connections rather than fearing vulnerability. By prioritizing honesty and emotional safety, daters can navigate relationships with a clearer understanding of their own needs and expectations.
Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity
Vulnerability plays a critical role in building connections, yet many find it challenging to express their true feelings and needs. The importance of recognizing personal boundaries while still being open in communication is discussed, emphasizing that it's okay not to share everything immediately. Creating a safe space where both partners can express their thoughts without judgment is key to fostering intimacy. Ultimately, embracing authenticity enhances relationships by encouraging both partners to share their true selves, leading to deeper connections.
The first date has gone well for Elizabeth and Mel (the chemistry was sizzling, quite frankly) so now we turn our attention to the murky waters of early-stage communication in dating.
Psychotherapist, author and podcaster Emma Reed-Turrell joins Elizabeth and Mel this week to break down how to communicate with clarity and kindness, without ever losing our power. We explore why self-esteem plays a crucial role in shaping the way we communicate, the pitfalls of people-pleasing and how blind spots in our own behaviour often spill into our connections with others.
After you’ve listened, you can get all the resources and worksheets discussed at www.thepodclass.co.uk
Mel and Elizabeth are on a mission to revolutionise the world of dating! We want to make it a safe, fun and rewarding experience for everyone. If you’d like to join us, we’ve put together our very own How To Date Good Dating Pledge, consisting of 10 simple ‘Dating Commandments’. Have a look and sign up for free now at www.thepodclass.co.uk
You can buy a copy of Emma’s book, What Am I Missing? here.
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