Whom in your life do you devote your time and energy?

Do they reciprocate that energy back to you?

If not, do you continue to pursue them?

Take some time and look at the relationships in your life, both past and present. Was there someone you devoted time and energy but they found an excuse not to want to do the same?

This quote by Shannon L. Alder helps shed light on the fact that although we may commit a good amount of ourselves to nourish a relationship, the person on the other end may not be as committed. It takes two people to nourish a relationship. However, how much time do people spend on feeding a relationship that was meaningful to them but did not really hold the same weight by the other person?

Does that resonate with you?

I can certainly relate to this. I’ve played the role of someone who continued to put forth the effort to a relationship that was not growing. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that it is important to recognize that even though relationships do go both ways; if you are always expecting to get exactly what you give, disappointment, anger, and resentment, are bound to set in if those expectations are not met.

Being honest with yourself is your best friend. Determine if the relationship is receiving the mutual respect and nourishment, it deserves in order to grow. If you find yourself in a relationship where you feel the other person doesn’t want to contribute, make sure to communicate this in an open and honest way. If, however, nothing changes, then it’s time to move on. This can apply to both friendships and intimate relationships.

It’s not about judgement of yourself or the other person. It’s not about what you did or didn’t do versus what they did or didn’t do. Look at it with curiosity and acceptance.

I think, often times, people are hung up on the “what ifs” and “should haves” and don’t allow themselves to let go and move on. They invest just as much energy dwelling on the relationship after it has ended as they did while they were in it.

Recognize the value of your time, energy, and well-being. If someone truly wants to be with you and is committed to doing so, they will find a way.

Now it’s your turn.

How does this quote inspire you?

Tell me about a time where you may have invested too much of your time in a relationship knowing that the other person was not willing to do the same. How long did you allow it continue before moving on? Are you currently experiencing any relationships like that now?

Contact me or share your thoughts below in the Comments section.

Let’s get the discussion going.

Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Together we can become stronger individuals.

Educate. Engage. Evolve.