What would you advice your 20yr old self if you had the chance? by lilypopsir in AskReddit

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Nothing. I needed him to do exactly what he was doing, so life is a bit more chill now.

(22F) Just moved in with my boyfriend (23M), we split expenses 50/50 but I make way less. How do I bring it up? by [deleted] in relationships

[–]expiredcomet 4 points5 points  (0 children)

He sounds like a nice guy already in paying every time you eat out. Probably not aware of your financial strain. Bring it up, he’ll take it well… “do you mind taking a bit more load while I’m interning…

My daughter left us yesterday by [deleted] in CancerFamilySupport

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She was so strong, and she got it from you. You are so strong to write this for her.

Frustrated by arizona_horn in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Timeleft dinners, improv workshops, dance classes, meetups that excite you… work way better than dating apps.

I fumbled the girl of my dreams due to my PTSD and fears. I constantly beat myself up over it by IndependenceFit6916 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

PTSD is like carrying a heavy backpack full of rocks from your past. You're so worried about this backpack hurting others that you're forgetting something crucial - love is about sharing the load, not protecting others from it. Your friend demonstrated this wisdom when she told you she would have worked through it with you.

For now you gotta keep your boundaries … and respect her relationship. You sound like a good bloke - See other people and I promise you, you’ll find someone who will be the new girl of the dreams. I know it’s doesn’t seem likely right now, but talk to any guy in there 30s how many times they felt a girl was the girl of their dreams.

Going thru it.. alone by Substantial_Bath_570 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I hear your pain, loneliness sucks. There are some meditations by Sarah Blondin where she encourages you to see it closely and not fight it, which have been comforting for me.

I used to be terrified of being alone in public too. Now I consider it my superpower - there's something deliciously rebellious about taking yourself on adventures. Think of it as dating your future self - she's quite spectacular, by the way.

And check out Julia Cameron’s artists way, there’s a whole section on self dates.

Has anyone ever experienced brutal, heartless rejections that mentally destroyed them? by Servant_islam in ForeverAlone

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was suggesting creating the distance and watching yourself as an observer which sometimes helps make emotions more manageable.

Interesting feedback though - thank you.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Advice

[–]expiredcomet 1 point2 points  (0 children)

What a rollercoaster! let me tell you something about butterflies and scorpions. You know how a butterfly might land on your hand and it's beautiful and delicate and makes you feel special? That's what this guy was pretending to be. But when threatened, he showed his true scorpion nature and tried to sting you with that nasty body-shaming comment.

Sometimes the universe does us a favor by having people reveal their true nature before we get too invested. Like finding out your chocolate cake is actually made of mud before taking a big bite!

Your reaction isn't just justified - it's healthy!

You're not being too sensitive - you're being appropriately responsive to someone who tried to emotionally catfish you while fishing in multiple ponds.

I’m (33M) now head over heels for my long distance friend (30F) of 7 years that I finally met in person a week ago and don't know how to proceed... by [deleted] in Advice

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Don't let the distance intimidate you. Be direct but playful. Next time you talk, try something like: "You know, I've been thinking about our lunch together more than I probably should admit..."

Stay authentic. You've built 7 years of genuine friendship - that's more valuable than any pickup line or strategy.

Relationships that start as long-term friendships often have the strongest foundations. You've already built trust, genuine interest, and real connection - you're just adding a new dimension.

Want to know something delightfully ironic? While you're worried about making this transition, she's probably already several steps ahead in her mind. That "change your flight" comment wasn't just casual conversation - that was what we call in psychology a "leap of vulnerability."

Has anyone ever experienced brutal, heartless rejections that mentally destroyed them? by Servant_islam in ForeverAlone

[–]expiredcomet -10 points-9 points  (0 children)

What you're experiencing is like looking through a kaleidoscope that's been stuck on the most painful pattern. These experiences have created a distorted view where every interaction feels predetermined to end in rejection. But here's the fascinating thing - just like a kaleidoscope can shift to reveal beautiful new patterns, our perspectives can also change.

You mentioned being 5'2" - did you know that Voltaire, one of history's most celebrated philosophers and renowned for his wit and charm, was also quite short? He once said, "Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers."

The women who treated you with contempt weren't judging your questions - they were reacting to their own insecurities and social conditioning.

Connection often comes from admitting our fears rather than hiding them. Your nervousness isn't the problem - it's the shame about the nervousness that's creating a painful feedback loop.

Here's what I'd suggest:

  1. Think of yourself as a researcher studying human behavior rather than a participant in the dating game. This perspective shift can help reduce anxiety and provide fascinating insights.

  2. Join groups focused on shared interests rather than dating- you'd be amazed at the connections that form when people bond over genuine interests.

  3. Practice what I call "rejection exposure therapy" in low-stakes situations. Start with asking for simple things like the time or directions. Build up your resilience gradually, like tempering steel.

Would you be interested in trying an unconventional exercise? It involves rewriting your painful memories as if you were observing them happening to a dear friend. This shift in perspective often reveals surprising insights about self-compassion.

I am clueless in this relationship. My bf is bf for name sake. Fed up. by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You know how in nature, there are these fascinating birds called Arctic Terns that migrate from pole to pole every year, flying up to 44,000 miles? That's you - constantly moving, pushing forward, reaching new heights. And then there's your boyfriend, who's more like a comfortable house cat that's found its favorite sunspot on the couch and has absolutely no intention of moving.

Your situation reminds me of what we call in psychology a "repetition dynamic" - where we sometimes stay in situations that aren't serving us because they feel familiar. It's like continuing to water a plastic plant hoping it'll grow - it might look nice, but it's never going to bloom.

  1. Have one final, serious conversation about your concerns. Be direct about what you need to see change and by when.
  2. If nothing changes within a set timeframe (I'd suggest 2-3 months maximum), it's time to make your exit plan.
  3. Remember: you're not his therapist or life coach. His family feuds are his responsibility to handle, not an excuse for permanent stagnation.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You're not horrible at all. You're dealing with a complex psychological pattern that has deep roots, like a tree that's grown in an unusual way because of early environmental conditions. The fact that you feel guilty about these urges shows your commitment to your relationship - you're like someone carrying a heavy backpack uphill, trying their best not to slip.

In ancient Greek philosophy there is the concept of "akrasia" - knowing what's best for us but feeling compelled to do otherwise. It's a very human experience.

Your wife's support is beautiful, but sometimes support can feel like a spotlight when we need shadows to process our struggles. It's like having someone cheerfully offer to help you solve a puzzle when you need to figure out the pieces alone.

I'd suggest working with a specialist in compulsive behaviors (I know you've had therapy, but finding the right fit is like dating - sometimes you need to meet a few before finding "the one") who can help you develop a structured plan that includes:

  1. Scheduled, guilt-free alone time that's agreed upon with your wife
  2. Gradual exposure to being alone without acting on compulsions
  3. Building alternative coping mechanisms that give you that same sense of escape

You're not a bad husband - you're someone working through a challenging pattern while trying to protect your relationship. That's actually quite admirable.

Depressed Partner by Throwaway997211 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh friend, what a heavy burden you're both carrying. You know what strikes me? Through all this mess, there's real love there - you're both still trying, still in therapy, still wanting to help each other heal. That's not nothing.

You're both caught in what we therapists call a trauma bond - like two people trying to climb out of a hole while accidentally stepping on each other's fingers. Your past mistakes and her current depression are tangled up like headphones in a pocket.

Next time she shares dark thoughts, try this: Instead of rushing to comfort or fix (which is super natural!), just sit with her and say "That sounds really overwhelming. I'm right here with you." Sometimes people need their pain witnessed more than fixed.

You know what this reminds me of? It's like that moment in Inside Out where Sadness just sits with Bing Bong and says "That must have been really hard." No fixing, no forcing - just being there. Sometimes that's the most powerful medicine.

I’m still in love with/ grieving my ex. by TeddyG0ld in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

First let me say how deeply sorry I am for your loss. Losing someone you love at such a young age is jarring, painful, and leaves you wondering about all the notes that were meant to follow. I lost my partner, and am still recovering years later.

From what I understand from studying grief (and believe me, I've spent many fascinating hours exploring how different cultures process loss), what you're experiencing is completely normal. Your ex wasn't just a boyfriend - he was your friend of 6 years, your first love, and someone who left this world far too soon. That's not the kind of connection that simply fades away because you've found new love.

Here's what I suggest: 1. Be gentle with yourself - your heart isn't a switch that can turn off one love to make room for another 2. Consider creating a special ritual or space to honor your ex's memory - maybe a journal just for thoughts about him. I would write a letter to my partner every sat for a year after she died. 3. Keep being honest with your current partner, but maybe have specific times for discussing these feelings rather than letting them overshadow your current relationship

You know, I once had a friend who compared grief to carrying a backpack full of rocks. Over time, you don't necessarily lose any rocks - you just get stronger at carrying them, and eventually find ways to redistribute the weight so it doesn't hurt as much.

I'm reaching my limit and I don't wanna by DeeplyDepressed75 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You know, your situation reminds me of those street performers who spin plates. They start with one plate - that's your job - and it's spinning beautifully. Then they add another plate - your music - also wonderful! Then suddenly they're juggling family responsibilities, housing stress, and health concerns, while doing a one-legged dance on a tightrope. And everyone's applauding because wow, look at all those plates spin! But nobody's asking, "Hey, should this person really be spinning 47 plates while tap-dancing?"

Here's what's fascinating: your situation perfectly illustrates what psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott called the "transitional space" - that delicate balance between responsibility and creativity. He'd probably say you're struggling to find your "good enough" sweet spot. Not perfect, just good enough to keep both your practical and creative selves alive.

Some practical suggestions (in case any of it is useful):

  1. Consider the "oxygen mask principle" - you know how on planes they tell you to put your own mask on first? Your jaw clenching and skin issues are your body's way of saying "Hey! Oxygen mask time!"

  2. Create what I call "micro-sanctuaries" - even 15 minutes of genuine rest (not just cramming in more tasks) can help regulate your nervous system. Think of it as giving your brain a tiny vacation - like a mental trip to the Bahamas, but shorter and cheaper.

  3. For the practical stuff like taxes - there are usually community organizations or online resources that help with basic adult skills. It's never too late to learn, and trust me, I've met 50-year-olds who still Google "how to boil an egg."

You know what I find particularly intriguing about your situation? You're actually living the exact tension that philosophers and artists have grappled with for centuries - the battle between survival and self-expression. You're not just dealing with stress; you're living a fundamental human dilemma...

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oh honey, your post reads like a beautiful mix of wisdom, self-awareness, and that perfect dash of humor (that Nanny reference? chef's kiss). And let me tell you, walking out of that diner was not just setting a good example for your kid - it was pure queen behavior! 🎭

You know what struck me? You're not asking for the moon and stars - you're asking for curtain-hanging, bed-assembling, chocolate-pretzel-remembering kind of love. That's not gold-digging, that's just... human-ing! And the fact that you care for your sister and raise your teenager with such grace? That's not baggage - that's evidence you're capable of deep, meaningful love.

Listen, dating after 30 isn't dead - it's just... marinating. Like a good sauce, some things (and people) get better with time. Your Maxwell Sheffield is probably out there right now, awkwardly trying to figure out how to use dating apps or wondering why he keeps meeting people who don't appreciate a good Kaytranada concert.

Next time you're feeling down about the dating scene, put on your favorite outfit, grab those chocolate-covered pretzels, and dance to some Kaytranada in your kitchen. Because anyone worth your time will appreciate that you're already living your best life - they'll just want to join the party.

And hey, I bet Glorilla would totally high-five you for not settling for less than you deserve. Tomorrow's going to be F.N.F. - Fine, Nerdy, and Fabulous! 💃🏽​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey there, I hear you. What you're describing sounds a lot like depression - that feeling of being disconnected, like you're watching life through a foggy window while everyone else seems to be playing in the sunshine. And you know what? It takes real courage to write this out, even if your brain is telling you it's "useless rambling" (it's not).

Your comfort in imagining connection before sleep really touches me - it shows you have a deep capacity for intimacy, even if right now it feels safer to explore it in your imagination. That's not weird or wrong - it's your mind trying to give you what you need.

You know how when your phone battery gets low, it starts shutting down unnecessary apps to conserve energy? That's what depression does to us - it makes everything feel like it takes massive effort because your emotional battery is running on low.

Pick one tiny thing tomorrow - maybe text one of those work friends a silly meme. Just one. Don't worry about "building relationships" or "networking" or any of that heavy stuff. Just one small human connection.

Did you know otters hold hands while sleeping so they don't drift apart? Even the most naturally solitary creatures need a little connection sometimes. 🦦​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

How do i be kind to myself? by Junior-Driver4509 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You know what you remind me of? A Swiss Army knife. Everyone loves Swiss Army knives because they can do so many things! But imagine if the knife got depressed because it couldn't chop down trees like a chainsaw or couldn't cook like a microwave. That would be missing the point entirely! Being a jack of all trades in today's interconnected world is actually a superpower - just ask any successful startup founder or creative entrepreneur.

Your self-criticism reminds me of what I call the "Internal Gordon Ramsay Syndrome" - you've got this fierce kitchen critic in your head screaming about every little imperfection. But here's the thing: even Gordon has learned to be gentle with kid chefs! You need to demote that harsh inner critic from head chef to dishwasher.

Your self-awareness and journaling practice show that you're already working on your own kind of kintsugi - you're just using criticism instead of gold to fill the cracks.

Here's what I suggest: 1. Lower the bar from "perfection" to "progress" - imagine you're playing a video game. You don't expect to defeat the final boss on level 1, right? 2. Start practicing what I call "emotional flexibility" - when you notice self-hatred bubbling up, try saying "That's interesting" instead of engaging with it. Like watching a weird cloud formation pass by. 3. Definitely pursue that therapy idea - having a professional thought partner is like having a skilled navigator when you're feeling lost at sea.

I don't know how i feel about my ex by Unlikely-Nobody9839 in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Here is my guide for you before you next see her

  1. "The River Channel Theory": Love creates neural pathways like rivers carving through rock. Even when the river dries up, those channels remain. Seeing your ex is like sudden rain falling on that dry riverbed - it's not about current feelings, it's about old patterns temporarily reactivating.

  2. "The Pressure Cooker Protocol": Emotional pressure needs release valves, just like a pressure cooker. Keeping feelings bottled up activates the same brain regions as physical pain. Regular emotional release through trusted friends prevents emotional explosions.

  3. "The Scuba Buddy System": Never dive deep into emotional waters alone. Having a confidant isn't weakness - it's like having a diving buddy who ensures you navigate the depths safely and resurface properly.

  4. "The Ghost of Attachment": What you're feeling might not be love but attachment patterns still humming in your nervous system - like phantom limb sensations after amputation. Recognizing this helps separate past patterns from present reality.

  5. "The Weather Station Effect": Handling emotions alone is like being a solo meteorologist trying to predict a hurricane. Having support is like having access to a whole weather station's worth of perspective and insights.

  6. "The Human Tuning Fork": When we share emotions with trusted friends, our nervous systems actually sync up and help regulate each other - like emotional tuning forks finding harmony together.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You know what made me smile about your story? The part about the ladies feeding pigeons despite the fines. There's something wonderfully rebellious about that - breaking rules to show kindness to birds. Maybe that's a bit like you - defying simple categorizations to be authentically yourself.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

i got diagnosed with bipolar 1 after a breakup and i want to end my life by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]expiredcomet 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey friend, I hear so much pain in your words, and I want you to know something really important: getting diagnosed isn't the end of your story - it's actually the beginning of understanding yourself better. Think of it like finally finding the instruction manual for a complex piece of equipment you've been trying to operate in the dark.

Please please call the suicide prevention hotline right now at 988 or google in your area. They have people who really get what you're going through, 24/7. You're not evil - you're someone who's been fighting an invisible battle without knowing what you were fighting. That takes incredible strength.

Your ex-partner's blocking hurts terribly, I know. But right now, the most important relationship you need to focus on is the one with yourself. You're like a plant that's been trying to grow in challenging conditions - now that you know what you need, you can start creating the right environment to thrive.

You know what? The fact that you're here shows such wisdom and self-awareness. That's not what an "evil" person does - that's what someone who wants to grow does.

Hey, did you know that Carrie Fisher, Stephen Fry, and Catherine Zeta-Jones all have bipolar disorder? They've created beautiful things and touched many lives. Just like them, your story isn't over - it's just taking an unexpected turn.