The most TOXIC RELATIONSHIP BELIEF: how you may be sabotaging your success

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The most toxic relationship belief is also -- unfortunately -- one of the most prevalent. It's so simple that you may not even believe me when I reveal it to you. In so many words, it's the belief that, in your relationship, you are free to be yourself. This is not really true, but believing it is can corrode your relationships from the inside out. In reality, relationships are roles, and you jeopardize the privilege of a relationship to the extent that your behavior is at odds with the expectations associated with your role. I'll discuss more in this episode.
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#toxic #relationship #psychology

[@psychacks]

Thinking of going to grad school? Check out STELLAR, my top-rated GRE self-study program based on the world's only empirically-validated test prep system. Use the code "PSYCH" for 10% off all membership plans: stellargre.com. The most toxic relationship belief is also -- unfortunately -- one of the most prevalent. It's so simple that you may not even believe me when I reveal it to you. In so many words, it's the belief that, in your relationship, you are free to be yourself. This is not really true, but believing it is can corrode your relationships from the inside out. In reality, relationships are roles, and you jeopardize the privilege of a relationship to the extent that your behavior is at odds with the expectations associated with your role. I'll discuss more in this episode. Social Media Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090053889622 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/orion-taraban-070b45168/ Instagram: instagram.com/psyc.hacks Twitter: twitter.com/oriontaraban Website: oriontarabanpsyd.com Become a Psychonaut and join PsycHack's member community: kzbin.info/door/SduXBjCHkLoo_y9ss2xzXwjoin Book a paid consultation: oriontarabanpsyd.com/consultations Sponsor an episode: oriontarabanpsyd.com/sponsor-an-episode #toxic #relationship #psychology

[@DeadlyPlatypus]

​@Aligned I'd like to kindly point out, from a strangers perspective: You've just dismissed something men value as "superficial," because it's not a priority for YOU. While I agree that your ex should not have done that, I can imagine that this dismissiveness existed inside the relationship. That's neither helpful nor healthy. If you want a man to take your priorities seriously, you must reciprocate. So must he. Men WILL NOT share any of their feelings with you if you dismiss a request as simple and easy as wearing attractive clothing as "superficial," and therefore refuse to comply with the request. This doesn't mean heels and a dress or lingerie (necessarily, though it wouldn't scoffed at). Just dress like you were going to eat dinner at a Chilis. I hope you take this as it's intended: advice, not an attack.

[@DeadlyPlatypus]

Do you have a thought out list of commkn things that this might apply to, especially in terms of communication? I'm always reticent to share things with my wife, for fear they will be "a bridge too far," and violate the roles. I hope that's clear.

[@rougebaba3887]

My wife has said negative things to me that she would NEVER say to anyone else on earth under similar circumstances. ... - In responding to an expensive necklace I gave her for Christmas she asked rhetorically, "I'm not wearing necklaces now, so why would you do that?" If anyone else has given her that, she would have shown appreciation. She not only didn't say a word of gratitude or acknowledgement, she didn't even look at me after opening it... And then proceeded to insult me over it! - When my son was misbehaving and she didn't like how I dealt with him, she said, "Any other man would have grabbed him by the scruff of his neck." Which is essentially saying to me, "You are the least of all men on Earth."

[@travisrigsby8457]

It is never an excuse for a woman to take her attitude out on someone, especially the person she loves the most, but I will tell you I have experienced this in my marriage and there is something deeply wrong inside the woman’s heart through prayer and study God finally gave me revelation to it Don’t ever give up you made a promise to her if anything you need to pursue her harder just as God pursues us in our sin somedays we loveHim other days, we are so focused on ourselves. We forget about everyone else. Life is pain and suffering and reward. Women Treat us men like we treat God one minute we are appreciating Him and the next we are blaming Him for why everything is messed up. We are our women’s life punching bag, but truly, it may not seem like it but We are also their greatest treasure even though theyseem to never. Hint to that we must outlast their negativity and pain to be the protector and provider we promised them we would be that does not mean continue to take abuse but if you do take abuse, take it and well and draw a boundary we are the leaders we can actually train maturity into our beautiful women. It is our job to be the mature leader that guides our family. Think about her even more than you already do and pray to God to guide you don’t give up we promised we wouldn’t remember that us men are built on our word even when other peoples promises fail ours must not it is who we are

[@emZee1994]

"I was ashamed of myself when I realised that life is a masquerade party, and I attended with my real face" - Franz Kafka

[@kedlr]

Thank you. Last words of Emperor Augustus: "Have I played the part well? Then applaud me as I exit."

[@stevenfernandez4372]

"The only time you are free to be completely yourself is when you are alone" - Absolutely true! 👏👍

[@chrismay2298]

Why are we conforming to and acting like this is okay? Absofuckinglutely not!

[@ThisAutomaton]

Rip to all the "if you can't handle me at my worst, you don't deserve me at my best" women.

[@grandremnant6901]

That excuse is a females mantra & license to accept her habitual bad behavior and never accept responsibility for her actions doing the work on herself to improve since I’m perfect already!

[@thane99x]

Bad behavior is still bad behavior. Lol

[@shangri-la-la-la]

If a woman is always at her worst who gives a shit about her best as you never see it.

[@markanthony2495]

Yep. Aka "I'm a brat, deal with it."

[@JussaBehbi]

That does make sense in terms of compatibility, though. There are different tolerance levels in everyone.

[@gabrielreyes6343]

This lecture made me think very different about why my lady and I broke up after 3 years. I got comfortable with the relationship, and I stopped thinking of it as a privilege like you said. I stopped courting her, I never planned fun dates or vacations. As a result, SHE was usually the one to end up planning the vacations, and it actually caused me to feel rather emasculated sitting on a beautiful beach in Mexico with her and me thinking to myself, "Wow, none of this was my idea, but it COULDVE been." She also seemed to stop trying in her own way with me as a result of my lack of romantic enthusiasm (putting on perfume and doing her hair all sexy for work but then changing into sweatpants and t shirt when she got home). This was the cause of countless fights, which you should also never do (argue with women). I realise now how much I was pointing the finger at her or 'modern women' or 'society corrupting her' when in reality, it is men who lead by example. Women want to follow men but when us men stop being masculine leaders they can look up to, they will also stop making an effort, or just give up and leave. It's a mistake I hope to never make again because I lost good one.

[@SaSpursFan]

Deep. I agree.

[@myahill7475]

Damn… at least you had the revelation. It takes so much maturity and self reflection to realize the mistakes you’ve made. I’m wowed at your response. What you said is amazing. It’s unfortunate that she completely gave up on the relationship without a full explanation of her needs while the both of you accompany a therapist.

[@AM-ut7dg]

This is the kind of self awareness, accountability and willingness to examine one’s own weaknesses that is very rare to see these days. Respect

[@VenomLeon]

I'm not even in a romantic relationship yet, and what you've shared is already very crucial to keep in mind. Much respect. I really hope you'll find a new love soon (that is, whenever you're open for it again).

[@seignee]

Interestingly, there actually seems to be different consensus on who should change first. some people say the onus is on women to change first, and tune into her femininity and that attraction will cause the man to naturally awaken his masculinity (see Fascinating Womanhood the book for this frame of thinking). Others say like you that it is women who follow men, and but when men stop being masculine leaders, the women follows suit. To me, part of being in a relationship requires sacrifice. If this relationship falls off course, and both parties fall comfortable, no matter who started to slack off first, i believe it is the person who realizes first who has the obligation to re-ignite that effort in the other. As long as it isnt too late. That is part of forgiveness, and respecting the investment of time and effort you have in the other partner. Unfortunately it seems both of you realized this too late. I hope your next relationship is a truly successful one my friend. You deserve this happiness for your newly found self-accountability.

[@michael_canton]

This makes 100% sense to me. I've dated women and have been around "woke" individuals who claim they can be "free" and in a monogamous relationship at the same time. If your "freedom" crosses my boundaries, you need to be contrite and honor my boundaries, or else you don't get to participate in an intimate relationship or friendship with me.

[@hoobeydoobey1267]

Political views are spiritual and not separate from how a person views and acts. Never, ever date a leftist. Read Ecc 10:2, Is 5:20, then when you understand how those two say the same thing, read Ro 1:22. Then when you understand how that plays into the previous 2 verses, read Romans 1:18-32. You'll see current society and where you find yourself in it.

[@robhulson]

I prefer the term “woke” more than “leftist.” I don’t disagree with everyone on the left, but the “woke” label works well for people whose beliefs are genuinely an exact parallel to a religious, proselytizing extremist zealotry. They do not live in reality nor seem to want to interact with reality on its terms.

[@DavZeugme]

@@hoobeydoobey1267 Damn. It's almost as if Jesus didn't ask us to treat others with humility, generosity and empathy. As if he wasn't criticizing the accumulation of wealth and egoism. Sounds pretty leftist to me.

[@hoobeydoobey1267]

@@DavZeugme That's because you make God into your image rather than die to self and transform into His. Read Ecc 10:2. God wrote that. Now you know. PS: Did your college prof tell you that belief? Atheist group where you sat stroke each other's ego?

[@DavZeugme]

@@hoobeydoobey1267 you should not judge your brothers, for that is God's prerogative. Remember James 4:11-12 or Romans 14:4? It includes your leftist brothers.

[@RedRoadInc]

Now I understand how my gf feels when I am home from work and I don’t shave, or walk around in my favorite pair of old blue jeans and old shirt. When it’s time for me to leave for work, I tend to put on my “character” of how I want the world to see me. When she comes home from work, she’s always clean, she does her makeup and always smells so fresh. She recently brought this to my attention, but in a way of accusing me of dressing the part for someone else aka other women. I work in a field where 98% of us are men and the handful of women who do work in my field are not my type or even remotely attractive to me. So I would get defensive and have to convey this to her in which she has a hard time believing me. At first I thought it was just her feeling insecure about herself and not trusting me. I’ll admit, I kinda let myself go a little now that I’m in my mid 40’s. The vigor I once had has dwindled some. And I have become a bit complacent expecting her to “accept me for me”. Thank you for explaining this to me. I love her and she is the most beautiful and amazing woman I know. This makes sense to me now. Thank you for all your content. I feel like I am really learning a lot about myself and trying to be conscious of those around me with regards to defining my boundaries while showing respect and understanding empathy. 🙏🏽

[@jdee8407]

So are you actually going to do something about it?

[@ashmonkey2572]

@@jdee8407 I read his comment as a yes. He sees the problem and her being worth it. So i think he is gonna put in more effort.

[@GoodCharms]

@@ashmonkey2572 j dee putting the guys' feet to the fire immediately lol

[@ashmonkey2572]

@@GoodCharms Ah you read it as more like J Dee asking if he already put in some effort in the month after he posted the comment? Then I really like J Dee's question to be answered.

[@GoodCharms]

​@@ashmonkey2572 assuming J Dee is female, she's liking Redroad's epiphany and is wanting action taken immediately lol

[@jerryjones7293]

The only time that you are free to be yourself is when you are alone. We must conform enough to work and stay out of jail..

[@handsomeX]

💯

[@anthonyward8133]

"Stay out of jail" is the hard part!

[@angledcoathanger]

You're not free to do whatever you want, but in a good relationship, you're not only obligated to give the attention and diligence which the relationship deserves, but you should also be free to receive some of the freedoms that it affords as well. That means sometimes being weak, ugly and unsure, and sharing that with your partner. If a relationship doesn't allow for that then I don't really see the benefit over being alone.

[@alexdavila1356]

the benefit is having kids and having them in an environment that is conducive for their growth. Being weak, ugly and unsure can be done on your own time and/or in front of a therapist.

[@zibbitybibbitybop]

​@@alexdavila1356 I don't think that's entirely true. Being willing to show weakness to your partner means being honest with your partner, and transparency is vital to a successful relationship. The key is to be making a genuine effort to address the problems together, as opposed to doing nothing and just forcing your partner to accept your flaws as-is. That's what's really a toxic behavior.

[@Lifeishard237]

@@alexdavila1356 Not everyone wants kids…

[@Yum_Yum_Delicious_Cum]

@@Lifeishard237 irelevant

[@andersnielsen6044]

@@alexdavila1356 Wow so spot-on. And no, a partner cannot be a therapist. ;)

[@dadmiraldankbar3720]

1000% My ex-wife literally said this about 2-3 weeks after we got married as she immediately flipped the switch and turned into an asshole. She admitted she was just manipulating me to get down the aisle and now that we were married she didn’t have to pretend to be someone she was not anymore.

[@ThorMaximus]

Annulment

[@bradleyjackson7168]

God that's rotten. Dump her. Never trust marriage. They all flip a switch after the big day is over

[@deltaholding3]

How the fuck do people actually do this…

[@saras.2173]

@@bradleyjackson7168 No not all women flip the switch after marriage. I feel for this guy though that it happened to him.

[@AUSTIN-ss2zd]

Femdroid

[@hikari9433]

It reminds me of what I've heard once : "Being married and having a family is like running a business. If you show up and do the work only when you feel like it, your company is not going to survive long." That being said, I don't think it's realistic or even healthy to expect being always "on" and in your "role" 24/7, the couple just need to agree on the right balance between "dressed up" and "sweatpants" mode and keep to it.

[@thes.t.a.gprince9952]

Agreed a day of relaxation, the time to enjoy each other's presence or be alone. Should be agreed upon

[@Ace.0.0.0.]

I concur. I have been with the same woman for decades. We have adult children. I am willing to forgive mistakes and the occasional bad day- it happens to all of us. But I have no patience for disrespect. And funny thing is, my familial relationships have improved.

[@DangRenBo]

Agreed. People get time off and holidays from their work role, too.

[@joeg4466]

of course. Nobody works 24/7 and nobody should be on 100% in a relationship. However you must always be aware and ready to bring your A game at all times!

[@lailbeeb]

Agreed. This is exactly what I thought when I noticed my GF got lazier over time, putting less effort into everything (exercise, diet, clothing, sex, etc.) that involved us. But! As soon as it involved other people (work, family, friends, literally anything else), more effort was put in. I talked to her about this and she gave me very modern feminist reasonings, like, "I do what I want". Fair enough! I have changed my level of effort to match hers. Now, we're equal. We don't do things for each other. I'm very productive and learning while she watches her dramas with her snacks. Soon we'll split and I'll be better off. Always keep your goals and aspirations and take care of yourself.

[@voxci1111]

Seems like you are a weak man. Why not just break up rather letting others break up with u .

[@realSpook]

Soon? What are you waiting for

[@jdee8407]

Do you think she got lazy completely on her own or could it have been your a fault as well?

[@Poussyeater-w5e]

@@realSpookexactly

[@foyo5497]

Im just seeing this video now which made me go, "HOW TIMELY!" Had the same issue with my partner a few weeks ago which stacked over months. During a convo about looking good, I told her she doesnt put much work into looking good. Her flex rebuttal was, "Everyone complimented on the fact that I put in work into my make up and clothing choice." after coming back from meeting with her college buddies. I said, "Well, they dont see you on the day to day like I do so of course they would compliment you. They get to see your best while I see the opposite pretty much everyday." She put on make-up and wore something nice the next day without me asking lol. We both work at home so its easy to be lazy. Since then, she puts on make up 4-5 times during the week. The fact that I like being alone makes it easier for me to be cold. Though before, I would tell her, "men are extremely visual creatures" along with denying her sexual advances half the time hoping she would get the idea without hurting her ego. I should have been more straightforward from the get go. I feel I can read between the lines, ppl like attention from the opposite sex. Its just that women have it way easier than men. I say, dont match her energy. Do better for yourself, go out with your friends or whatever else. Or just straight split ASAP.

[@timelessredlipstick]

I agree with you on this one. 100% Always be the best version of yourself with your relationship and let go of the things that don't serve you well.

[@joncarbone]

So true. It's important to be someone with professionalism, discipline, good character etc. Just 'being yourself' should never involve bad behavior.

[@BrendaLopez-ki6hl]

This makes alot of sense. If you are in a relationship with another human being, you should act in a way that helps preserve that relationship not destroy it. This means making an effort and acting with respect and integrity. I had mentioned previously "if you're in a relationship with another human being", because if you want to act anyway you want and not deal with the consequences of such action, then maybe your not ready to be in a relationship with anyone but yourself. *apologies for any grammatical errors English is my 2nd language but I'm working on it 😊

[@LionKimbro]

I am exactly where I need to be to hear this. I’m so thankful. This is another one I wish I had understood some thirty years ago. The last great out-of-the-ballpark one I heard here is “You can’t have any relationship you want with any person.” I’m thankful!

[@nickyalexa7744]

I'm so happy your speaking these things in such a straight forward way. I had an ex that would continually say, "if you loved me then you'd accept me exactly as I am." He could not comprehend that we, meaning both of us, should always be bettering ourselves.

[@-haclong2366]

I've also noticed that a lot of people focus more on their perceived independence over why they actually want a relationship.

[@karamlevi]

Excellent point and nicely stated.

[@4CardsMan]

Guilty. My first wife once said "Don't use your *** customer skills on me!" I learned the wrong lesson from that. I failed with my second wife because I didn't use them. Right on with this one.

[@karamlevi]

I lost countless friends n gfs because I “didn’t sell them” nor use “customer service skills” due to shaming from a couple friends and my mother. They said I was really nice when I sold but they could never trust that person even though my customers profoundly loved me and trusted me while I guided and painstakingly served them in love n respect. I became a as*hole (in my personal life) while feeling I was ultra honest giving them zero tact and pure transparency (overall). I got a phobia and became kinda brutally honest no matter the bad feed back I got… because I was giving truth rather then being this toxic manipulator (which I never was). Your 1000% right. Keep the customer service skills going. They are tactful negotiating skills with delicately intelligent body languaging algorithms with problem solving and caring mixed into reasonable leadership demonstrations. Makes you a pleasure in a personal relationship. We need these skills more in personal relationships then anywhere else honestly. Amazing channel content and great comment 4CardsMan !

[@num3willie]

The analogy can be taken farther. A customer can choose to stop frequenting a business because, in spite of your attention to good service, a competitor with a perceived better product comes along or she might just become bored with what you have to offer.

[@Nicole-zv7ee]

Another thought provoking video. This channel is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Thank you.

[@realbigmanoncampus]

This makes 100% sense to me. Modern Women will argue, fight non-stop, disrespect men, but ONLY in personal relationship. In professional relationship these same women know they cannot pull that crap with their bosses bc they will be FIRED immediately. Women ask yourself - when was the last time you kept arguing with your boss just because you had to be right.

[@thorie79]

I put some blame on the weak men who don't fire their ass as soon as they talk back or stop doing their job.

[@FriskyTendervittles]

Same can be said for some men. People are people jeez

[@TayongoExplores]

​@@FriskyTendervittlesPeople aren't people. There are qualities, negative or positive, that are generally masculine and those that are feminine. We don't have to play that "it goes both ways" everytime something is said.

[@ghadafihussein]

I need all my time for myself, that’s why I hate relationships.

[@onlydivergences]

Probably the most clear and valuable 9 minutes I have ever spent. Subbed.

[@donfranklin6956]

Just, "Wow." Jaw-drop. You are on a roll again. Absolutely correct. My 28 year marriage only succeeded to the extent that I was never myself.

[@jameswilkerson4412]

Are you saying that that’s why it had to end?

[@gregorschoner9682]

This is a very good episode, making an important point with a metaphor that works! The assumption that we can just be ourselves in relationships may also reflect a certain shift in expectation and attitude that may be traceable to the wave of thinking around self-actualization, individual freedom etc that started in the late 60s. This has promoted a certain form of immaturity in which partners are viewed almost like parents who are expected to love unconditionally..

[@psychacks]

Yes -- I made an episode on that a while back. If you haven't done so already, you can check out "The truth about unconditional love".

[@dynamicfieldtheory7915]

@@psychacks Great, thanks!

[@Human-Being-Human]

This sounds a little bit misogynistic imo. Why is that there is no place in your life that you can be yourself and feel comfortable in your own skin? That's what it seems like you are saying. When you are in a relationship, you will likely be together most of the time outside of work and kids if you have them so to say the only time you can be yourself is when you're alone, means that you will likely (never) have time to be yourself. If your partner has a problem with you getting into a comfy t shirt and sweatpants after a long day of work then you need to find a new partner. I would agree that breaking that relationship contract of sorts, the dynamic of a relationship and certain aspects would likely be a deal breaker for many and a deal breaker for me but I think as you said, it's determined by what you agree apon in the relationship to begin with. It is weird for you to specifically point out women for wearing sweatpants aka (something comfy) and saying that they are not participating in their "role" but I think it would have made more sense to point out that this specific relationship was formed to be that way, rather than just the example itself. In most relationships the example you gave is pretty normal, most people don't mind their spouse getting comfy after work, also most relationships that do work out are ones formed on the premise of both people being themselves so that they can be themselves around the person who already loves everything about them. This to me sounds more like the idea a lot of conservatives have, where they expect people to follow a list of unspoken guidelines. "Socially constructed" guidelines is a very broad thing to say and in that case you could create any rul that you feel is "socially constructed" it's better imo that be determined by the people in the relationship itself not by the world around them because that can lead to a lot of expectations you want but don't get met because not everyone will fit into those "socially constructed" roles.

[@Human-Being-Human]

@@w4rhhwsrje58 doesn't have to tho.

[@sarpant]

@@Human-Being-Human explain misogyny to me right fkn now you mindless bot

[@melawieeinapfel8594]

you must have been a solicitor in your past life😍 you verbalize all the things I was thinking to myself, even wrote in my own journals and told my friends in exact that manner, it feels so good to find someone on yt that shares this view!

[@thebobloblawshow8832]

I feel bad for all you young men dating. Don’t marrying them, live with them or have children with them. Work hard, work for yourself and save your money. Buy a house some toys and date casually. I’ve seen so many of my friends get caught in the trap. You will never fully recover from the financial hit she will cost you. I was smarter than the average bear.

[@more3520]

Agreed. I'd like to add that in addition to feeling cheated, this could fuel any insecurities about the possibility of infidelity being baked into the crust of some workplace relationships.

[@LARA-sg4bt]

What happened to the audio? When I put my headphones on only one side could be heard, this is not the same for other videos

[@samathastevens5831]

So here is the "farmer viewpoint". My great grandparents and my grandparents treated each other with respect. Even in a disagreement, they treated each other with respect. They are thinking of the feelings of the other, and they never once called each other names. Often one of them would go for a walk, or go to their craft room, or just go on the porch to "think a spell on it". Then they would come back to the other and be more calm. As far as "looking nicer for others". Well my grandmothers both wore only face powder, mascara, and lipstick. My mom was more what you would call a "tomboy" never wearing makeup except for special occasions. But they took care of their nails and pedicures and wore nice clothing practical for the weather. On the other hand her sister was always heavily made up and dressed to impress. She had beautiful loungwear for the home, and I only saw her without makeup before bedtime. I would say a woman should be "herself" when it comes to dressing and applying makeup. Because there are jobs who don't like women heavily made up and jobs that do. Likewise there are men who like the "natural look" and those who prefer the "glam look". Now why on God's green earth do we care more about what a woman looks like than her character? How good of a mother is she to your children? What survival skills does she have? Is she resourceful? Is she thrifty? Things that matter more to farmers. I suppose city folk just want the most attractive "arm peice"?

[@psychacks]

That's right. Even if you're mad at your boss, you don't fly off the handle. You exercise sufficient self-control to restrain yourself, because you understand it would be "inappropriate" to behave that way in the workplace. Those close to us deserve _better_ than the versions of ourselves we give at work. I made an episode on this a while back called, "The gift of your absence: The threshold of tolerance".

[@samathastevens5831]

@@psychacks I will look for that. And thank you for your efforts and generosity to the community! They are appreciated, even if I might not always agree with your viewpoint.

[@KulaGGin]

_"Now why on God's green earth do we care more about what a woman looks like than her character?.. I suppose city folk just want the most attractive "arm peice"?"_ The looks were a specific example by Dr. Taraban, probably from his work I'm guessing. So, some specific man observed that his wife would dress up for work looking sexy but not for him and was displeased by that. It wasn't about _"I want my wife looking sexy all the time around the house"_ , it was about the wife caring more about the work than about him in this regard. So the thing to take from this video for women isn't _"Look pretty for your men, because they want this"_ . The thing to take for women is _"When in a relationship, be the appropriate for relationship best version of yourself, the same way you're the appropriate for work best version of yourself when you're at work"_ . And it's the same thing to take for men, of course.

[@samathastevens5831]

@@KulaGGin Yes I understand. This was a bit of humor on my part. I suppose I have been talking with my British friends too much lately. 😗

[@hitmusicsociety]

This is so deep! "The truth is an offense but not a sin." It will take some a little time to digest This, disbelieve in it and one day accept it as a fact. Life gets better when you accept the facts.

[@chrisjames2766]

Audio is only in left channel.

[@MattKrack]

yep, confirming. tough on headphone listening.

[@carlh3074]

I thought it was my cheapish*t earphones again

[@colmpullen4702]

Couple of things. First, when dating one primary thing I look for is that I enjoy her when she is just being herself and she enjoys me when I am just being myself. Also when dating and things look promising I make sure we have discussions about what the partnership part of our relationship will look like. Things like what things in the partnership will I handle, what will she handle. Those discussions help she and I have an idea what roles each of us will play.

[@kylefournier4254]

Yeah, but unfortunately those ideas are seen through rose-colored glasses in the beginning stages of dating and relationships. The cold hard reality that comes with time seldom matches up to what you were discussing with her in the beginning.

[@colmpullen4702]

@@kylefournier4254 I use the discussion about who does what to get a sense of how her values and mine might work together. In many cases nothing came later because I sensed the woman was just running her mouth rather than making a commitment to working as a partner. Things will change in any partnership. Having practiced 'finding what works for both' early in the relationship means she and I can far more easily 'work past' changes.

[@roboldx9171]

The lady going out to work looking good for men at work and looking lesser for me, at home, or when we would go out together is a very good point. I confronted my wife with the exact same point. She checked it and changed her behaviour.

[@sunadsuhasini]

You're the lucky one in a million!

[@stefanisilva2493]

This just makes sense for rude, non empathetic people - this folks really need to control themselves 24/7 because they have no natural inclination to acomodate the confort of those around them. But a fair person needing to control and hide who they are in a relashionship makes no sense - how could I expect my husband to ge home tired and still behaves like he is visiting his gramma? Expect someone to be our particular "cheerleader" and entertainer is the reason why relashionship don't last anymore- we are treating family like a monetary transaction.

[@annoyingprecision2487]

I see Dr. Taraban's video and I instantly hit the like button. You're on the verge of garnering the 'GOAT' status due to the quality of your content and your valuable insights. Thank you.

[@GubernareMens]

There is a deeper aspect to this: authenticity. Or rather, not being your authentic self. It's a more philosophical take, but there are many ways in which culture and society coerces people into being inauthentic - putting up certain roles. Whether it is at work to please or manipulate others into liking you or buying something, women literally putting on a mask we call make-up (to appear more appealing; manipulate others), or even wearing clothes of a brand you perceive to fit your image (hell, is your self-image even authentic?). It's nothing to do with being human, exploring our programmable nature, truth, etc. While Orion hits the nail on the head, and roles are most definitely a natural behavior (though we are always more than our roles rooted in ego), we fail to realize that modern society is as engineered and fake as the relationships we try to make successful, or avoid.

[@dcgeorgia6307]

I agree with the first part of this, specifically that a relationship, especially being married to another human being is a privilege. But I don't agree that men whose wives get dressed up for work and dressed down at home to sweatpants are feeling hurt and cheated. Hard-working men that dress for work every day understand why their women come home and get comfortable. They appreciate that she is working hard to bring home a paycheck for the household, and they want her to relax and be comfortable in their shared space. It's ridiculous for a man to expect her to dress up at home with high heels after working hard all day. Home is a couple's sanctuary where they can be themselves and comfortable when away from the cruel world. Now that doesn't mean she can let herself go, get fat, and be neglectful. They both must have respect for each other and themselves for the relationship to function and grow stronger.

[@MahamDjinn666]

The Japanese has a saying. Each person has three faces. The first he shows to the outside world, the second to loved ones, the third he shows to no one. I believe it's pretty relevant to this video.

[@Hamsterlieb]

I agree in some points. Relationship is a privilege. And its important to have a little "filter" to always be respectfull, reflective etc. My most concern is: In this way - to not be truly myself - its not a real relationship to me. Its a role I play and a farce in the relationship. I want my partner to truly understand me. To getting know of me everyday. But that cant be done if I play a role. Sure - its important to maintain a healthy relationship in working together, investing time and strength into the partnership by communicating, obverserving and reflecting together. But in my opinion its very diffucult to say: I cant be myself. Even at work I am always truly trying to be myself. Sometimes I need to play a competent role. But thats not the whole story. There are many moments when I am myself. And when other people dont like that - thats okay. But then its not an worthy relationship for me. Because its not "true". To be true to myself means also to be kind to myself. To put makeup on just me to want to feel nice and pretty when Im looking at the mirror. I try to talk to myself in a respectful way. I am also a little concerned about what that means to me/other people. Because: When does the role of a partner stop? Sure - everyone has moments where he wants other people to please him. The result for me after watching this video is to need to set very clear boundaries, then? Who am I, what do I want to give to this relationship, how far do I want to go before getting loose of myself. Because that cost a lot of strength. No. The more I think about it, the more I dislike that. Because I am always trying to be real. And I play no role. Only, when its really important to meet needs (!). But everyone else have to accept that how I am. I am not such competent at work and thats okay. But its not a good job for me, where I can not be real. Its not my purpose of life then.

[@cturdo]

Previous generations took this to heart. Most parents from the 1950s/1960s were on point 24/7 to their kids and neighbors as reliable citizens, and many now in the 80s+ still have their role instincts. If they were positive and productive, this is a good thing.

[@ArmedAssociation]

Some ways you can deal with the stress that comes from upholding your roles in relationships and life is to participate in sports/exercise, pray/meditate, or go hiking in nature/camping/hot springs. You can do it alone or with close family/friend.

[@1Maklak]

I tired the "clock in and do not even try" strategy at work. The bosses eventually figured it out and pretending to work was almost as much effort as working anyway. More on topic, there is a quote "Be the best version of yourself for a given situation."

[@mikec5603]

If being with someone is bringing out in me my true human essence as a man, then its not acting, its my human nature manifesting itself to thriving and be the best version of my self. On the other hand if I am not allowed to express myself naturally, then its a chore, a job an act and i can only do that for a period of time before I get tired or burn out. So being with myself is allowing me to be comfortable, relaxed and happy, and if there is someone out there that has similar interests, hobbies and temperaments, then we can be together, otherwise I am comfortable dealing with my challenges by my lonely self.

[@bluefishbeagle1]

Great advice for two normal well adjusted people. mix in a full fledged narcissistic personality order and it's impossible to please them... it's not about the relationship it's about them.. period

[@arhabersham]

My left ear learned a lot today...

[@mobilemcsmarty1466]

awesome discussion, I think this one is central to relationships. only I don't agree with the conclusion about "the most toxic" belief, not even close. the premise here is that we can't be ourselves ..ever. we play a role at work yes, then we essentially are to play a different role, basically go back to work, when arriving home from that sucky work day at the day job? this is a big fat NO as far as I'm concerned. my expression of love for my lady is being glad that she can take *off* all the work armor and be as she really is. that she can do that with me is what I take as an expression of love. I do the same, and expect the same attitude in return. that we have to do heels and suits to go out into the world is a burden society places on us. absolutely I will not carry this burden at home. I'd rather we be naked all the time. to see that she can do the suit to go out the door at all is enough. again, I do the same. so there 😎

[@MsInsaneNMembrane]

Thank you thank you. I hear a lot of men refer to relationships as jobs and all I ever think is..”if you only knew how much I secretly hate my job you wouldn’t want that” 😂

[@NikolettaMuhari]

100% true. It doesn't mean that you can't be weak, sad or ill in a relationship at all but you have to try to also show your best side to your partner. I also want to point out that if you love your partner then it won't be hard to try be your best self with them. I found it sad that the only example was about women. Most men forget to court, go on dates in a steady relationship.

[@MartialistKS]

Good video. I am really liking this ongoing analogy you've been using between how we treat people at work versus how we treat people in our personal lives. I think it's a very good way of conceptualizing how we should treat the people in our personal lives with the degree of respect they deserve.

[@GuppyPal]

This has been common sense to me for a long time. It's super strange to me that so many of the women I've dated don't seem to understand this. If you're not contributing anything to the relationship, then what reason does the guy have for keeping you around? Isn't the whole point of relationships to do things for one another and serve each other in various ways? If you're not doing that, you're failing at your role in the relationship and are willfully setting yourself up to get "fired." Duh. This seems so obvious. Thank you for the video.

[@totallynotdio1311]

partners should accept what you cant change, but help you change the things you can change. relationships are supposed to help you be the best version of yourself

[@polemeros]

I thought you would say, "Relationships should be equal". That is a very common and destructive illusion. But your take matches a truth I learned many years ago, that all relationship are EXCHANGES. Giving and getting is not "mercenary" but is the natural constant heart of things. You make excellent sense.

[@E4439Qv5]

Reciprocal, sure. Mutually beneficial, among others. And... 'Mercenary' works, if one gets paid.

[@samwithers8477]

The many versions of oneself. There is how I see myself, how I believe others see me, how others actually see me, and finally the objectively true me that exists regardless of any and all human perspectives - variances between these four versions of you are irreconcilable. Understanding this is an achievement in itself for it is the closest one will ever come to true self awareness.

[@the_eerie_faerie_tales]

Beautifully said!

[@elizabethdobos6259]

Good points! There are a lot of scruffy men in Colorado who don't ever shave their faces but expect presentable women to be attracted to them, which is so hypocritical.

[@mikejames9642]

Excellent message. My ex wife frequent said “ I just want to be married to someone who “loves me for who I am”. Sounded initially ok, but I later realized that it really meant that “she was not willing to change and try to be the best version of herself”. We eventually divorced. She remarried and divorced again. When a later girlfriend told me the same thing, MAJOR red flag!!! Do not commit to a woman that is unwilling to grow. Run!

[@gusevening4910]

I agree to a limited extent, because if a relationship is work, or feels like work, you are likely with the wrong person.

[@lauren4434]

He's helping me do a major overhaul of my understanding of "relationships." Romantic notions are getting plowed under. It's very good.

[@UldisBiz]

Thank you, Dr. Orion. I really needed to hear that. Noticed some slacking in myself that needs to be corrected.

[@pl1676]

This is absolutely genius. This is something that I always knew but didn't know how to put that into words or explain why this is. Good video.

[@olafweyer859]

I so absolutely do not want this, I already have a job. And if I could start my work life over from when I was young I'd probably opt to have a small piece of land and work it. It wouldn't ask me to perform a role. It would only ask me to perform. I feel tons of burdens off my shoulders only thinking about it. I'm a people pleaser. And that makes this whole theme a nightmare. You see, I perform my roles too well. As for the sweat pants, if that's what makes her comfortable but she couldn't do that around me I'd feel something would very, very off. Stop impressing me, we're already a couple! Impress me with being you, which is hopefully a kind and caring person. If that's a role to you only, then this whole thing was a mistake. Because I'm kind and caring and that's not a role that is ME. BEING that is the only reason why you want someone in your life. BEING that because you care. If that's a role, then what's the point? Relationships are transactional? That's no approach to ANY relationship, not even professional. It's not been that long since the industrial revolution. Utilitarianism has seeped into every corner of our being. Is it because of the industrial revolution? Is it because of the scientific age and how it took hold? Is this all quiet normal as how we think of ourselves, treat ourselves, each other, is it normal to think "transaction" in all of this? "Transaction" is a valid interpretation. But who are we, that it comes so natural to us? Is that at all "natural"? These are questions. I would argue that there must be more. That the language is making us dumb. A small piece of land... and closer to the roots - not the roles or the language.

[@MsInsaneNMembrane]

Bravo!

[@olafweyer859]

@@MsInsaneNMembrane Thank you. That made me feel less alone with these notions.

[@sunadsuhasini]

It all boils down to how. much you love your significant other. The more you love, the more you will want to go out your way to please him/her, whatever that entails. The "why can't I be myself at home at least" argument is not going to help the relationship if the "myself" is downright mean and self centred. If the real "you" is causing the problem, maybe that is what needs to change!

[@drkdrumz]

Agree with everything except the changing into sweatpants when I get home. Men or women, doesn’t matter, being home, allows you to just be more comfortable. Who the hell wants to wear a suit while watching TV.

[@vilikoskinen3269]

Oh my god! These are like my thoughts! I have liked the old saying "People have three faces;First is for co-workers. Second is for family and friends and third is the only one person himself knows" Good video!

[@ID1visor]

My experience is that I'm not even myself in a relationship. There's a certain merging that happens and it's very clear to see when I'm alone. There's me, there's the other and then there's us.

[@user-ww1wh3wz5d]

This guy is going to save my dating life

[@steffih.6527]

From a woman's perspective, a guy farting infront of me for the first time in the relationship and then saying, this is normal, he feels so comfortable around me, always gives me the creeps. Everything always went downhill after that. Now I understand why I'm losing interest. Thanks!

[@johnwhite-q7s]

i met a much younger woman and she is the one who initiated contact. i am so impressed by her attitude and character that it has forced me to be a better version of myself. we both like to do challenging things that make us grow as people. but the age gap is 17 years-i am 43 and she is 26. i am just taking it day by day with her, and i have zero expectation that we will last forever

[@growing.grounds4054]

Wow this great sir ! Opens the mind to some in depth things going on in relationships. Me personally my gf doesn’t dress up for work by choice and she dresses up for me and or wears sexy clothes for when I come home from work ! I don’t have to wonder “ why does she get dressed up so nice for work and looks like crap at home with me. I’ve been with a woman like that before it was frustrating. More ppl need to see this !!!!

[@maryhershberger7093]

I actually agree, but it doesn't make me want another relationship

[@derekcable]

Thank you for making sense of how a previous relationship went south due to this behaviour and how I saw it at the time.

[@duydangdroid]

Relationships require work. Therefore, relationships is work.

[@chericoffman6321]

That’s absolutely true. I grew up in family that didn’t allow me to be myself. The only people I can be relaxed around are my kids and my friends. So no romance for me. Too stressful.

[@33Jenesis]

I am retired. I make effort daily to change out of sleep clothes into something nice and presentable. When I go out to my chorus rehearsal and visit my uncle I wear a dress and put in makeup. My mother lives with me now. Before that I was not married or lived with men. I had been truly myself for all the decades living solo since high school. I considered it a privilege.

[@upup209]

Excellent content. I’m a new subscriber going over your older vids. This one is very clever

[@timothypeterson9045]

I am a very critical person, I just don't believe most everything, but this guy is brilliant. The only place that I can be myself, is when I am alone. I wrote this just before you said it. Maybe that is why so many people want to be alone. Unfortunately, this can leads to loneliness. which is an epidemic.

[@tamelashafer8852]

True

[@amandaforrester7636]

What you describe is why I don't EVER wear high heels. If I'm not comfortable in my hot, smart looking outfit at home, I don't wear it outside the house. I can wear makeup and nice, good looking clothes, but comfortable shoes. 😌 Men should also keep the Romance up, as well. It's been my experience that they stop all the things that got you. I have been contemplating this subject from both sides lately, although I haven't put it in the same words you did. Thanks for your work.

[@MrMiroto]

Yeah my ex did this too. The truth is she wasn't interested to look good for me, because I was save.

[@youknow6968]

There are a vast number of men who hate makeup, clear, clean skin and nice hair is more than enough to keep the fire alive, no pretence at every level.

[@joshuamac6302]

I've never heard this before, but it makes composure sense. I've noticed and have communicated to my partner that she performs better and acts better for her boss and place if employment better than she does at home. I actually asked for her fake side versus the character that i interact with. We treat strangers better than we do or spouses and it's fucking crazy to think that this is okay!!!

[@ifeanyi_maduka]

This is an extension of the social exchange theory in many ways. And by the way, it doesn't matter how sound your analysis is, or how empirically validated they appear, you will come across to many as a misogynist. Otherwise, great content, love your stuff, and yes I am a psychologist.

[@PlanetOfTheApes999]

You're right that people shouldn't feel free to say and do whatever they damn well please within a relationship. This is certainly an incredibly toxic belief. However, the idea that people are supposed to be performative ("taking on roles") in their relationships is also toxic because it causes inner stress due to a conflict between how one feels and how one acts, although to be fair, this is far less toxic than making your relationship a dumping ground for your negativity like most women do nowadays. We need a better alternative than simply acting the part, and I have an idea. Maybe we should aspire to be loving and peaceful with our partners, knowing this is the right thing to do and conducive to a healthy relationship. Simply having this aspiration in our minds will produce powerfully positive results in most cases; we don't need to pretend or adopt roles. You came close to articulating this idea when you suggested people "channel the best versions of themselves", but that analogy doesn't quite hit the mark, because if we have all these versions of ourselves within us, the result would be multiple personalities and inner fragmentation.

[@Kivlor]

The term role is a more healthy approach to relationships than you may realize. It doesn't cause fragmentation, it defines the boundaries of each person's duties. My in my role as a father, I have drastically different duties to my children than I do to my sister, and my duties to her are different than my duties to my wife, my best friend, my co-workers, my employer, etc. Trying to do away with this is phenomenally unhealthy, and frankly degenerate.

[@PlanetOfTheApes999]

@@Kivlor I never said I want to do away with duties. I just think embracing roles in a performative way - acting the part - isn't going to cut it. You need sincerity and real human feeling, and for that you need aspiration.

[@realmaureenoyakhilome]

Thank you.

[@BronLea]

There is no such thing as a 'free-for-all' in a relationship - any relationship! There may be unconditional love but there is never unconditional commitment!

[@Westernhospitality]

It's true. She's always judging.

[@mgregory22]

I think this video is incomplete without an exhaustive description of the obligations needed for each role in a successful relationship, like a legal document.

[@tomtinker220]

I’ve often told my wife this…no one is fully and completely themselves! If they were, no one would like them. We all self-censor at some level and we have too! That does not mean we can’t talk about our feelings, hopes, and dreams, fantasies and hangups. It just means the way they are expressed, and the way anger is expressed , has to be regulated at some level so your partner can understand it and respond in the way you need.

[@i3oosted]

6:55 I’ve always said this!!! They get your best and I get your worst? The hell…

[@skeletor8250]

The increase in sales of sweatpants over the last decades clearly correlates with the decline in nuclear families, and the rise in 30's women lamenting that they are alone.

[@isaacgoble]

Thanks! I’m a member of Rich Cooper’s 10% community and have found great value from your content.

[@MrAndiC]

Thank you for your videos. They explain to me, what beliefs my ex girlfriend had and how many women are programmed to act in life. However, what you present in your videos is not what I want in my life. I just want to know a woman for who she is. There's no woman sexier to me, than a woman in her sweatpants and hoodie, just being herself. If what you present applies to all women, then I prefer being single rather than in some kind of staged relationship. I now know what to look out for, thanks!

[@doug8718]

Well said. A person is still a spoiled toddler when he (or she) assumes the role of husband (wife) without also taking on the associated responsibility that comes with it. Further, if he (she) doesn't want to assume the responsibility of being a father (mother), then don't have children and then be a lazy, uncaring parent. Every role we assume in life should be preceded by a willingness to assume the associated responsibility.

[@martinmartin9084]

Well, you are right, and this is why (and probably many others) stay single. It isn’t worth playing a role a role 24/7 if that means you lose yourself in the process, meaning you have to have your values undermined, or you have to play a game of pretend. I’m sure many disagree w me on this, but there is a freedom in being largely your own self, while of course, you show others respect and kindness. Another angle of this is today men are taken for granted in almost every way, and also, if we have a problem, noone gives a fuck. See why I do not want to get stuck in that role again?

[@commissarmalevich8946]

I unfortunately fell into a chunk of this behavior. My girlfriend often said she wanted me to share everything and speak my mind. I took this very literally and often said too much or gave the truthful but sometimes hard to swallow answers, hoping that the information would be used for improvement. I wound up cynical thinking that sharing my feelings and opinions as they were cause things to fall apart.

[@chrislivingstone1843]

That‘s definitely not a small example, it’s huge.

[@marieriokeme3010]

This is amazing and it speaks to me. You're a rare gem and your views will soon skyrocket

[@mwalsh7500]

Luv it. And tells me I have to do this with both dating and a relationship dress up don’t slack off. This took spaces watching to get this into my brain

[@xavierreinoso5839]

That sounds like all of us are terrible people ourselves. I would say that you must grow up and have self control, that's different to say that you should role play for the rest of your life. Yes, you must work in you, your better you.

[@FriskyTendervittles]

I was in a very unhealthy dynamic where I was judged and shamed endlessly and was afraid to be myself. I will be in a healthy relationship where I am FREE TO BE MYSELF thank you very much.

[@TayongoExplores]

I think you totally missed the point.

[@adiorthotos]

My left ear really enjoyed this.

[@markjones1889]

Man this is the thing that sucks though. The women will just claim that you are being controlling and telling her what to wear at home. Claiming you are the toxic one in the relationship.

[@zibbitybibbitybop]

I wouldn't give two shits about how my girlfriend dressed at home as long as she's exercising proper personal hygiene, I'd care solely about her not being a dick towards me behavior-wise. Gotta pick your battles.

[@jdee8407]

If shes telling you that your doing something else wrong.

[@orlando7282]

I was a bit skeptical when you started like so many other of your videos however, I've learnt to hear you out before it often always makes complete sense in the end. This one is going g to help me a great deal. Thank you Doc