How can I be sure that I'm not choosing my relationship out of fear of being alone?

I'm scared that I am with this man so I won't be alone. He should be with somebody who deserves him if this is the case, and I don’t want to hurt him.

Mark Morris, LCSW

Therapist and Author of Living Yes

While not wanting to be alone may not be the best reason to be in a relationship, it is probably more common and normal a reason than you think. Since you seem to care about your friend ("don't want to hurt him"), I imagine there are many other reasons that you are together. I suggest that you talk about this open-heartedly with each other. The idea of being afraid of being alone sounds like an honest starting place. Don't try to "figure out" whether you should be with him. Just talk. The communication is likely to shine light on deepening connection for BOTH OF YOU.

In the meantime, your idea that you don't deserve him is rooted in a "core lie" that you are telling yourself. You can read about "core lies" and much more in my book, Living Yes, a Handbook for Being Human. Check out www.LivingYes.org.

Be easy on yourself. You are deserving!

~Mark

The information above is intended as general information... (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

How can I be sure that I'm not choosing my relationship out of fear of being alone?

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