

Deep Penetration | Gay and Bisexual Dating Advice with Daniel Morales
Deep Penetration
Welcome to 'Deep Penetration,' the podcast that delves deep into the hearts and minds of Gay and Bisexual men in the LGBTQ+ community. Join me, Daniel Morales, as we explore the intricate and intimate issues surrounding love and self-esteem, offering thought-provoking insights, real-life stories, and expert advice on healthy dating in the Gay community. From Gay & Bisexual dating dilemmas to self-acceptance journeys, these episodes are a safe space for self-discovery and empowerment. Discover the confidence, connection, and love you deserve. Tune in each week for a brand new episode!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 11, 2024 • 17min
#39: Porn is KILLING Your Relationship
I wanted to shed some light on the psychological and emotional aspects of pornography consumption and its potential impact on your intimate connection with your partner. By understanding the effects you can navigate you relationship with pornography in a way that promotes healthy self-esteem and thriving relationships.
1. Understanding Pornography's Appeal:
Pornography is widely consumed due to its immediate accessibility, visual stimulation, and the fantasy it provides. It can be a source of sexual exploration, self-expression, and temporary escape from everyday stressors.
2. The Impact on the Mind:
a. Unrealistic Expectations: Frequent exposure to pornography can shape unrealistic expectations about sexual experiences, body image, and performance. This can lead to dissatisfaction and feelings of inadequacy, both for oneself and one's partner.
b. Desensitization: The explicit nature of pornography can desensitize individuals to sexual stimuli, requiring more extreme or novel content to elicit the same level of arousal.
c. Dopamine and Addiction: Pornography consumption triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can develop a tolerance to this stimulation, potentially leading to a cycle of addiction and compulsive behavior that interferes with daily functioning and intimate relationships.
3. Communication and Relationship Dynamics:
a. Expectations and Boundaries: Open and honest communication about pornography use is crucial within a relationship. Discussing each partner's comfort levels, boundaries, and expectations surrounding pornography can help foster understanding and establish a healthy balance that respects both individuals' needs.
b. Emotional Intimacy and Connection: Excessive consumption of pornography can hinder emotional intimacy and connection within a romantic relationship.
c. Comparison and Jealousy: Regular exposure to pornography can lead to comparisons between the bodies and sexual performances depicted on screen and the reality of one's partner. This can give rise to feelings of insecurity, jealousy, and self-doubt, which can strain the relationship if not addressed openly and honestly.
4. Developing a Healthy Relationship with Pornography:
a. Self-Awareness and Reflection: Developing self-awareness around one's motivations and patterns of pornography consumption is the first step toward developing a healthier relationship with it.
b. Education and Conscious Consumption: Educate yourself about the potential consequences of excessive pornography consumption and the impact it can have on the mind. By being mindful of your consumption and making conscious choices about the type and amount of pornography you engage with, you can maintain a healthier relationship with it.
c. Seeking Support: If you find yourself struggling with compulsive pornography use or if it significantly impacts your relationship, consider seeking professional help.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
The affects of pornography and how it can be impacting your relationship
02:46
The impact of pornography on your mind
04:41
Desensitization to sexual stimuli
06:53
Communication with your partner about porn
08:38
Using porn as a resource for self-discovery
10:32
Developing a healthy relationship with porn
12:44
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 21min
#38: Why There is So Much Cheating in the Gay Community
Infidelity is one of the most challenging issues that can arise in a relationship. It can leave the betrayed partner feeling hurt, angry, and confused. The emotional struggle after your partner commits infidelity can be overwhelming, and it is important to know how to handle it in a healthy way.
I get it, you're probably thinking I am absolutely crazy for telling you this because the pain you are currently experiencing or experienced is very raw and real. I get it, I'm a 3rd party person telling you to process thing in a 'healthy way," so I probably sound like every other life/love coach right now, but here me out.
If you decide to work on the relationship, which is COMPLETELY up to you, holding on to resentment and frustration will not get you anywhere. There will be 0 progress and you will have prolonged a process that could have ended the day you found out. Forgiveness is key and in order to forgive, you'll need to be sure of yourself and your worth. Now I know you much be thinking, "If I knew my worth, I wouldn’t stick around," and for many people that is the truth… but acknowledging that people DO make mistakes and accepting that THIS could be one of those situations involves self-awareness, compassion, and understanding.
The challenge that you are met with is something I call "perception deception." You are looking at the same person but you view them differently. That is very hard for your mind and heart to process. The person you trusted more than anyone else in the world. The person you told ALL your secrets to. The person who knew your pain on an intimate level is now no different than all the other people that hurt you in the past. So, how to you move past that? How do you continue to see them as the person you love and trust?
The answer: You don’t.
They will have to regain your trust and love but here's the thing, they are still the same person you fell in love with. In my years of coaching, it is rare that I have come across someone that INTENTIONALLY cheated to hurt their partner. If they did, it is usually because they were hurt as well in the relationship and didn’t feel loved or prioritized. People cheat because there is something missing in the relationship, they don’t have good coping skills, they struggle with insecurities, they have previous trauma that results in them struggling with vulnerability, and the list goes on.
Why do I mention this? The cheating is a symptom of the disease, not the disease itself. Someone who cheats can recognize the error of their ways and change. I don’t believe in the phrase, "once a cheater always a cheater" or "if they shenan once, they'll shenanigan." So, as a love and self-esteem coach, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of infidelity on relationships. While it is normal to experience a range of emotions after discovering infidelity, it is important to take steps to address these feelings and work towards healing and forgiveness.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Deciding to work on the relationship and move past the infidelity
04:17
Allow yourself to feel your emotions
11:08
Seek support from trusted friends and family
11:49
Consider seeking professional help
13:10
Set boundaries and take time for self-care
14:18
Consider forgiveness
14:59
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 15min
#33: How Do I Impress His Parent's?
Meeting your partner's parents can be a nerve-wracking experience, I get it! It doesn’t matter if you are queer or straight, there is always a level of pressure involved because you want to impress. For queer men, it can be particularly challenging. Here are some general rules of thumb!
1. Communicate with Your Partner
Before meeting your partner's parents, it's important to have a conversation with your partner about their relationship with their parents and any concerns they may have. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect and how to approach the situation. You should also discuss your own feelings and concerns, as well as your expectations for the meeting.
It's important to be on the same page with your partner, and to make sure you are both comfortable with the situation. This also brings up a question that I get asked a lot:
"What if he isn't out to his parent's and he wants to introduce me as a friend?"
There are two things I will say:
It's not you. It is very easy to feel like your partner is hiding you because they are not proud of you and that is simply not true, at least not for a lot of couples. Try to recall your coming out experience and the fears you had going into it. You partner is risking being outed by introducing you to his parents which is an indication of how much he cares about you, which brings up my second point.
Patience has it's limits. It is very important to be realistic about your limitations. If you have already gone through the process of coming out, it can be very difficult emotionally and mentally to feel like you're being pushed back in the closet. If you also feel like your partner is gaslighting you or guilt tripping you regarding your feelings, its important to take a step back a reflect on the relationship and how much you are willing to invest.
2. Be Respectful and Courteous
When meeting your partner's parents, it's important to be respectful and courteous, regardless of their opinions or beliefs. Remember, they're still your partner's parents, and it's important to show them respect and kindness. This doesn't mean you have to agree with their views or beliefs, but it's important to avoid confrontation or conflict.
3. Set Boundaries
While it's important to be respectful and courteous, it's also important to set boundaries and communicate your needs and expectations. If the conversation turns uncomfortable or inappropriate, it's important to assert yourself and redirect the conversation. You should also communicate any concerns or discomfort to your partner, and work together to address the situation.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Understanding subjective experiences and how that relates to meeting his parents
01:43
#1: Communicate with Your Partner
04:34
#2: Be Respectful & Courteous
07:59
#3: Setting Boundaries
10:21
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 20min
#28: "Sorry...I'm Not Looking for Anything Serious"
So, how do you get over the fear of commitment?
Grieve Your Former Self: Taking the time to truly process your coming out experience is crucial in your ability to let go of limiting beliefs. Often, we leave that person behind and move on, but just like you left your former self behind, you also leave your partners behind and move on. We lived in a state of discomfort for so long that when we finally let that lifestyle go, we consciously or subconsciously vow to never be uncomfortable again. Therefore, you run in the opposite direction at the first sign of conflict in your relationship. Having compassion for that former self will help you gain empathy, which is a crucial part of building a healthy and successful relationship.
Challenge Your Confirmation Bias: A confirmation bias is a tendency to process information by seeking and interpreting information that is consistent with your current beliefs. Often, it's subconscious which is probably why you allow yourself to believe when a relationship doesn’t work out that "it wasn’t meant to be," or "you weren't looking for anything serious anyway," or "everyone in community in non-committal," but you don’t realize that your current confirmation bias is perpetuating a re-occurring outcome. Breaking this cycle will be crucial in your ability to overcome your fear of commitment.
Accept Failure: The perfect relationship or person does not exist, love can be painful, and you cannot predict the future. We have been conditioned to believe that failure devalues us when it reality, it INCREASES our value. If your life was only filled with success, it would make it very difficult for you to relate or empathize with people and you would SUCK at conflict resolution because you would also be used to winning. You would lack the ability to practice true gratitude and your vision of the world would be skewed. Failing is the MOST human thing you can do and it builds character.
Practice Small Commitments: In my 1:1 sessions, I often times find people view commitment as a life-sentence. That is simply not true. You are looking at it on a macro level, "I have to commit to the relationship or my partner." That isn't where your focus should be, it should be on making small commitments to yourself everyday and executing them. Ex:
Commit to paying that bill you've been putting off.
Commit to going on that walk you've been putting off.
Commit to planning a nice dinner for you and your partner.
Commit to talking to your partner about a disagreement you guys had.
Committing to smaller actions daily takes it from this amorphous thing you have no idea how to approach to something more tangible. THAT is you putting in the work. That is how you maintain and grow a healthy relationship with your partner and yourself.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
The fear of commitment
02:50
The main areas of commitment you might struggle with
03:56
How does your relationship with commitment impact your relationships?
08:26
Grieve your former self
10:02
Challenge your confirmation bias
11:06
Accept failure
12:10
Practice small commitments
13:20
The reality about commitment
16:23
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 21min
#26: The SECRET to Healing from a Broken Heart
Here are some tips and suggestions to fixing YOUR broken heart:
Step 1: Allow Yourself to Feel Your Emotions
The first step in healing from a broken heart is to allow yourself to feel your emotions. It's natural to feel sad, angry, hurt, or confused after a breakup, and suppressing these emotions can actually prolong the healing process. Instead, give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions come up, and allow yourself to express them in a healthy way. This can be crying, journaling, talking to trusted friends, or listening to uplifting music.
It's important to note that allowing yourself to feel your emotions does not mean wallowing in self-pity or becoming consumed by negative thoughts. It's okay to have moments of sadness or grief, but it's also important to practice self-care and take steps to support your mental and emotional well-being.
An exercise that I love to give my clients is the "Time Out" exercise. If you feel yourself starting to get emotional, honor that moment. Excuse yourself, find a safe/quiet spot, set your timer for 5-10min and allow yourself to cry it out. Once that timer goes off, you brush yourself off and keep pushing.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Relationship
Reflection is a key part of processing and healing, However, this doesn't mean dwelling on the past or obsessing over what went wrong (I know, easier said than done.) Reflection is about taking a hard, honest and objective look at your relationship and identifying what you can learn from it.
Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- What were the strengths and weaknesses of our relationship?
- What did I learn about myself in this relationship?
- What patterns of behavior did I notice in myself or my partner that contributed to the breakup?
- What would I do differently in future relationships?
Reflecting on your relationship in a non-judgmental and compassionate way can help you gain clarity and insight into what you want and need in future relationships. It is also incredibly useful in the process of healthy detachment.
Step 3: Focus on Self-Care and Personal Growth
This means taking active steps to prioritize your well-being, improve your self-esteem, and cultivate positive habits and behaviors.
Here are some ways you can start practicing self-care:
Practicing Self-Compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself, and avoid self-blame or self-criticism.
Physical Health: Eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep and rest.
Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations and self-encouragement.
Personal Interests: Engage in activities that bring you happiness and fulfillment. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone and explore new hobbies or interests. This helps to build self-confidence.
Building a Support Network: Reach out to friends, family, therapist, or a coach for support and guidance as you navigate the healing process.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Why does a broken heart hurt so bad?
02:55
Step 1: Take time and honor your feelings
08:00
Step 2: Reflect on your relationship
10:20
Questions to ask yourself
15:30
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 21min
#25: 3 Signs Your Relationship is TOXIC
If you feel that you are in a toxic relationship, here are the 3 primary signs I have come to find in my years of coaching and the countless case studies, articles, and research I have read pertaining to toxicity within a relationship:
1. Lack of Trust and Respect
One of the first signs of a toxic relationship is a lack of trust and respect. If your partner is constantly questioning your motives or accusing you of things you didn't do, it is highly likely that they don't trust you. Trust and respect go hand and hand, therefore, if your partner does not trust you it is likely that they do not respect you. According to Dr. John Gottman, criticism and contempt (one of the dark horseman of the relationship apocalypse). These go hand in hand with trust, respect, and admiration.
I have worked with clients that are SO deep in the cycle of contempt and criticism that it has become second nature to put each other down. One partner says a comment such as, "you don’t take care of yourself anymore so you always look like shit," and the other responds with, "I would take care of myself if I actually had someone at home I was excited to see." That pattern is not toxic, it is destructive. Destructive to your mind, body, and whole.
If you feel like your partner doesn't trust or respect you, it's important to have an open and honest conversation about how you feel. This probably seems fruitless if your dynamic is as bad as the example above but it's important to let your partner know that their behavior is not acceptable and that you need to be treated with trust and respect in order for the relationship to work. If your partner is unwilling to change or continues to exhibit toxic behavior, it may be time to end the relationship.
2. Emotional and Verbal Abuse
Emotional and verbal abuse can take many forms: it can be as simple as name-calling or as complex as manipulation. So, if your partner is constantly putting you down or making you feel bad about yourself, I would recommend taking a step back and asking yourself the following questions:
Do I feel I deserve to be treated in this way?
Do I believe the things my partner is saying?
Why am I allowing my partner to treat me in this way?
If we get into the more complex aspect of emotional and verbal abuse, then we have to speak about manipulation and the different ways in which your partner could potentially be manipulating you. If you are unfamiliar with manipulation, here is a short list of possible signs:
Guilt Tripping
Gaslighting
Ultimatums
Withholding Affection
Silent Treatment
Self-victimization
Deflection
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
What do you envision when you think of a toxic relationship?
01:54
Hooking up is off limits on the first date in my book
4:51
Sign #1 of Toxicity: Lack of Trust & Respect
6:27
Sign #2 of Toxicity: Emotional & Verbal Abuse
9:00
Sign #3 of Toxicity: Lack of Support & Understanding
11:34
How to get out of a toxic relationship
14:28
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 23min
#24: Dating App RED FLAGS to Avoid!
Dating apps have become the most popular and convenient way to meet people, especially for us in the queer community. Being that we are a group that has experienced discrimination, marginalization, harassment, and violence, many of us have been forced to live our lives in the shadows. Granted, there are places in the Unites States that have passed progressive bills in favor of our basic rights as Queer individuals, but that does not account for a majority of the US. There are only 15 states that have total rights protection for LGBTQ+ individuals, which is only 30% of the country.
Why do I bring this up? It pertains to how we find love in the queer community, which is primarily through dating apps. There is a sense of safety in it. If you are someone who was raised or currently lives in a state without LGBTQ+ rights, then you FULLY understand the utilization of apps as a way to connect with others. That being said, dating apps come with their downside as well and it is incredibly important that you are aware of the red flags.
Here are 3 MAJOR red flags to look out for:
1. Lack of Clear Photos or Personal Information
2. Inconsistent or Vague Communication
3. Requesting Money or Personal Information
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Breaking down the culture of dating apps
03:10
Hooking up is off limits on the first date in my book
4:51
Red Flag #1: Lack of clear photos or personal information
07:12
Red Flag #2: Inconsistent communication
12:04
Red Flag #3: Requesting money or personal information
15:06
My personal dating story
17:40
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 18min
#23: Do These 5 Things If You Want to Save Your Relationship!
If you are wanting to ensure the relationship stays healthy so you are interested in some tips and tricks, I commend you! You are taking active steps towards maintaining a healthy and sustainable relationship. Here are my top 5 romantic gestures you can do today:
Surprise Date Night: Spending quality time with your partner is essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. However, it can be challenging to find the time and energy to plan a date night. Surprise your partner by planning a special evening out, or even an at-home date night. Consider their interests and plan something that you both can enjoy, such as a movie night with their favorite films, a romantic candlelit dinner, or a fun activity like mini-golf or bowling. Whatever you choose, make it special by adding thoughtful touches that show your partner how much you care.
Love Letters: In today's fast-paced digital world, love letters may seem outdated, but they can be a powerful way to express your feelings. Take the time to sit down and write a heartfelt letter to your partner, expressing your love and appreciation for them. Be specific about what you admire and appreciate about them, and share your hopes and dreams for your future together. You can leave the letter for them to find, or read it aloud during a special moment together.
Thoughtful Gifts: Gift-giving can be a powerful way to show your love and appreciation for your partner. However, it's important to choose gifts that are meaningful, rather than simply expensive or extravagant. Consider your partner's interests and hobbies and choose a gift that shows you've been paying attention. For example, if your partner is a coffee lover, consider getting them a special blend of coffee from a local roaster or a new coffee maker. If they love to read, get them a book by their favorite author or a new e-reader. Whatever you choose, make sure it's something that shows you care and have put thought into.
Acts of Service: Acts of service can be a powerful way to show your partner that you care about them. Consider doing something that will make their life easier or more enjoyable, such as preparing breakfast in bed, doing the laundry, or cleaning the house. These small acts can go a long way in demonstrating your love and appreciation for your partner. They show that you are willing to put in effort to make their life better and easier.
Erotic Surprise: Often, couples put their sex life on the back burner. I understand, life can get in the way when you are dealing with work stress, kids, general responsibilities, etc. Sex ends up becoming a chore for a lot of couples. If it has been a while since you've had a hot, steamy, passionate night of love making… plan one. I would recommend choosing a day that the two of you are off of work or have more of a mellow day.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
What will "more" get you?
03:20
Romantic gesture #1: Date night
6:17
Romantic gesture #2: Love letters
07:31
Romantic gesture #3: Thoughtful gifts
9:30
Romantic gesture #4: Acts of Service
10:45
Romantic gesture #5: Erotic surprises
13:45
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 21min
#22: Are You Codependent? 3 Tips to Regain Control
If you are in a relationship or have ever been in a relationship and you've heard the following phrases, you might be codependent:
"Why are you being so needy!?"
"I can't do everything for you!"
"Can’t you figure it out on your own!?"
Now, let me be clear… codependency, although not recognized as an official diagnosis in the DSM-5, it is a pattern of behaviors that can be linked to a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, dependent personality disorder, avoidant personality disorder, etc. In no way am I saying you have any of these things and if there is a concern that you do, I would recommend seeking a licensed psychotherapist to evaluate you. The reason I bring it up is because I feel that the term "Codependency" has become a buzz word that is used flippantly, just like the term "Narcissist." It is incredibly important that you recognize the differences and not use terms that don’t actually apply to yourself, your partner, or anyone else.
Here are some ways to regain control:
Self-Awareness: Often, you aren't aware of the fact that you are codependent because this is something that has been a part of your behavior for an extended period of time. Many psychologists would argue that codependency stems from childhood trauma, therefore, the process of self-awareness may require a combination of coaching and therapy to unpack unhealed trauma's and create an action plan moving forward. Regardless, acknowledging patterns of behavior that are no longer serving you or conducive to building relationships is going to be the first step.
Setting Boundaries: Boundaries are difficult for MOST people to set, let alone if you are struggling with codependency. Understanding the basic fundamentals of setting boundaries is going to be crucial when you first start. To keep it simple and not overwhelm you, I'll break it down to 3 basic steps:
Know Your Limits: become familiar with you personal needs and expectation. This is what the self-awareness phase is for.
Be Specific: Communicate those needs and expectations clearly. It should be black and white with room for compromise.
Be Consistent: Stick to your boundary. Often, people struggle to maintain their own boundaries which allows others to cross them.
Self-Care: Establishing self-care routines is going to be VERY important. Why? If you are codependent or exhibit codependent behaviors, that means you have a tendency of prioritizing everyone else and you always take a back seat. In the long-run, that is a recipe for resentment, frustration, and anger. Doing things for yourself (exercise, meditation, journaling, alone time, etc.) will help you shift that mindset. It will not be easy in the beginning, but overtime you will notice a HUGE difference in yourself and your relationships.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Some of the common signs of codependency
04:45
What I have learned about the Queer community
08:35
How to you overcome codependency
12:12
Setting boundaries
14:30
Self-care is important
16:34
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order

Jun 11, 2024 • 21min
#21: 3 Tips to Not F**k it Up the First Date!
What are the TOP 3 topics I recommend you avoid as a dating coach2? Here they are:
Previous Relationships: I speak from experience on this one. Yes, even as a relationship coach I have made several mistakes while dating which is why I can speak to them. Do NOT talk about your previous relationships. When you do that, it is possible the person you are on a date with will feel like you haven't moved past your last relationship. That also can be interpreted as, "you don’t get over things easily." Aside from that, its just not sexy! A big part of the first date is exploring your connection and chemistry, hijacking each others imagination and becoming excited for the possibilities (future dates, adventures, sex, etc.) If you are focused on the past, you are not present in the moment and you are also blocking the potential of a future.
Finances: I feel like this goes without saying, but believe me when I tell you, this comes up often in my 1:1 coaching sessions when someone is trying to figure out why they didn’t land a second date. Money is a sensitive subject for most people due to the fact that we live in a society that equates success to financial wealth. Every relationship is different and therefore, the experience is subjective. I am basing this off my experience as a coach and working with couples that have struggled with this in their relationship. So, talking about income, assets, etc. is off the table… especially for a first date. If your focus is on finances, that brings into question your motive for dating. Is it to truly connect?
Commitment: As a love coach, I think the conversation around commitment is SUPER important, however, there is a time and a place. If you are someone who has experienced this or done this on a first date, then you know what I am talking about. It's not likely the person will get up from the table and walk away, but it's not likely they will want to lock down a second date. Why? The conversation comes off as you being needy, clingy, or maybe even a little anxious in your attachment style. First dates are intended to just enjoy each others company and really feel things out (not literally… remember, no sex on the first date.) Keep in mind, if you have followed my advice on dating, then you going on a first date with someone who is aligned with your expectations and therefore, this is no need to talk about future commitment. Be present. I also understand that for a lot of you, this might be your 100th 1st date and you don’t want to waste your time. Keep in mind, this may not be their 100th date and I would hate for you to go into the date with a negative mentality. True connection only happens when open ourselves up to the possibilities and allow ourselves to be unapologetically ourselves.
Chapters:
Intro
00:01
Let's talk about Queer culture and the reason behind a lot of failed dating experiences
00:57
Hooking up is off limits on the first date in my book
4:51
3 topics to avoid on a first date
07:08
Don't talk about finances
11:42
Don't talk about commitment
14:30
Want to connect with me?
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/coach_dannymorales
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdannymorales
WEBSITE: https://www.thecoachdanny.com
EMAIL: danny@thecoachdanny.com
LINKTREE: https://linktr.ee/thecoachdanny
FREE GIFTS:
Overcoming Infidelity: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/overcoming-infidelity-capture
Queer Dating 101:
https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/mens-dating-gift
COACHING:
One-Hour: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/1h-coaching-order
30min: https://www.click.thecoachdanny.com/30min-coaching-order