Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel Esther Calling - Stuck in the Middle
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Jul 28, 2025 A man grapples with the emotional weight of being his friends' go-to confidante in romantic crises. He questions how to maintain boundaries without sacrificing deep connections. The conversation delves into the intricate balance of empathy and self-care amidst relationship turmoil. It also explores the impact of family dynamics on personal identity and the longing for emotional safety. With insight into navigating these complex emotional terrains, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own boundaries and support roles.
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Triangulation Causes Emotional Strain
- Being a confidant to both sides of a struggling couple creates a conflict of loyalty and emotional drain.
- Esther Perel calls this triangulation and advises recognizing the pain of being in the middle without taking sides.
Confidant in Friend Groups
- The caller often acts as the confidant in many friend groups, especially when two friends are in conflict.
- This longstanding role brings empathy but also emotional exhaustion.
The Confidant Role's Double-Edged Sword
- The caller has long played the role of a confidant, mediator, and peacemaker among friends.
- This role makes them indispensable but also deeply entangles them in others' conflicts.