Expert Kriss Rita joins Peter McGraw to discuss the process of curating Solo Love Letters in his forthcoming book. They explore the importance of diverse perspectives in relationships, the journey from single to solo, the matchmaking process on dating apps, finding happiness in being single, the remarkable life of Eric, cycling benefits and advice for coupled friends, and creating a beautiful life through personal growth and self-care.
The importance of embracing different viewpoints and stories to gain a better understanding of others.
The significance of personal growth, self-acceptance, and finding a balance between solo life and openness to a potential partner.
Deep dives
The Power of Community and Letters
The podcast host discusses the inclusive and diverse community that has formed around the podcast. He expresses gratitude for the love letters he received from members of the community, which have been included in his upcoming book. The selection process for the letters was challenging due to the many compelling stories shared. The podcast host emphasizes the importance of different viewpoints and stories, allowing readers to find voices that resonate with their own experiences and gain a better understanding of others.
Transforming from Single to Solo
The podcast features a guest, Chris Rita, who shares her personal journey from single to solo. Chris recounts the various methods she tried to find a partner, including online dating, speed dating, and creating her own singles meetup group. She also discusses her transformation in mindset and how she now approaches solo life with a combination of embracing it fully, while also acknowledging moments of desiring companionship. Chris highlights the importance of personal growth, accepting oneself, and finding a balance between a new way of life and openness to a potential partner.
Belonging and Identity in Solo Life
Listeners are introduced to the story of SB, a veterinarian in Canada, who shares her experience of feeling like an outsider due to societal pressure to follow the relationship escalator. SB expresses gratitude for finding the podcast and the sense of belonging it provides. Through the podcast, she has embraced the label of 'new way solo' and has deconstructed society's expectations. SB emphasizes the importance of recognizing her own worth beyond relationship status, challenging her previous belief that being partnered was the key to happiness.
Creating a Beautiful Life
Emily, a small business owner in Salt Lake City, shares her journey of personal growth and self-discovery following a traumatic breakup. She highlights her desire to make life beautiful and how this focus has shifted her mindset and perspective. Emily expresses gratitude for finding the solo community, which resonates with her deeply. She emphasizes the freedom she feels in disconnecting from societal expectations and instead prioritizing intentional decisions that add beauty to her own life and the lives of others. Emily views this as a new adventure that has opened her world in unexpected and beautiful ways.