Hello there!
I'm a heart exploration coach, and I've found that learning is the treasure of the body!
From what you've told me, I can see that you're feeling a bit unsure, confused, worried, negative, and overwhelmed.
I totally get it. I won't go into the details of your worries about not being able to easily enter into a relationship, but I would like to give you three pieces of advice that I think could really help.
First, I suggest you try to accept your current situation, my friend.
I know it might sound a little strange, but I promise you it will help! It will make your heart feel a little lighter, which will help you think about what to do next.
You mentioned that your ex-boyfriend has avoidant attachment, and that you're not comfortable taking the initiative if he doesn't. You and he agreed to remain friends after the breakup, but he's not really cooperating. You've recently contacted a few guys, but you tend to be more of a passive type. You think that your divorce, external debt, and fear of trusting love again (because you've experienced being cheated on) might be related to your situation. In my opinion, if someone else were in your situation, they'd probably feel similarly negative, worried, and confused. It's natural to feel this way after being hurt. Having been married before and not having financial resources can also make people feel negative and pessimistic. It's also normal to worry that taking the initiative yourself will be seen as being pushy and overzealous because everyone is afraid of being misunderstood and embarrassed. It's important to accept your situation and recognize that part of you longs to be loved but is temporarily unwilling to take the initiative to contact others. This will free up your mind to think about other things, otherwise your mind will be filled with all kinds of negative emotions.
It's so important to give yourself the space to accept your current situation. This will help you to embrace change and see it as a natural part of life. It might seem a little strange, but it's true! Change is all about allowing for the unknown.
Secondly, I'd like to suggest that you take a moment to view your own state in a rational way.
Because when you think things through in a calm, rational way, it helps you understand yourself and the world around you better.
To help you see this in a more rational way, I'd like to suggest you try doing the following four things:
The first thing to remember is that loving someone means loving them for who they are.
In other words, if a guy loves you, he'll accept your marital history and debt problems because he loves you as a person. He'll see beyond the external things and see the wonderful person you are on the inside.
It's so important to focus on all the great things about yourself, rather than dwelling on the things you think you're lacking. We all have our own unique strengths and qualities, and you're no exception! The fact that you've sought out help shows that you're motivated and courageous. So, believe in yourself and know that you deserve to be loved. Your unique self is worthy of love, just as you are.
Secondly, remember that you're a different person now than you were before.
You mentioned in your description that you have been cheated on before, so you might be having a hard time believing in love again. But you're different now! As we often say, you learn from your mistakes. You've experienced being cheated on and have grown up. You have a stronger ability to identify the love you have for the other person.
Also, the guy you're seeing now is different from the one who cheated on you before. You've come so far! With your current experience and abilities, it is very possible for you to tell if the other person is sincere.
And the third thing you can do to tell if two people truly love each other is to look for these four characteristics:
Do you have a strong emotional bond? When you're together, does the other person really respond to you, or are they just talking to themselves? Are you the only special person in the other person's heart? Does the other person love you for who you are, or because you're useful to them?
Fourth, remember that love is something you have to actively express, not just wait for.
It's a common misconception that it's "normal" for a man to pursue a woman. In fact, love is born in an equal relationship, and a woman can also "pursue" a man. Love needs to be expressed, and action needs to be taken.
When you look at it this way, it can help to melt away all those negative feelings.
I really think you should focus on yourself and be brave in loving, because I know it'll help your mood improve.
When you take a step back and look at your situation with a cool head, you might even know what to do. At this point, you focus on yourself and try your best to do a good job.
For instance, if you consider the four characteristics I mentioned, it's likely that the other person really likes you and wants to be with you. But, because of their personality or because they're also worried that you don't really like them, they're not very proactive. In that case, you can take the initiative to declare your love. Only by taking such proactive actions will you be able to reap the rewards of love.
If the other person doesn't respond right away, it's okay! They might be busy, and that's totally fine. Even if they reject you, it doesn't mean you're not good or that you're not suitable for each other.
Love requires courage, and love also needs to be learned. Reading relevant books is a great way to learn, but you also need to learn to love in practice. This is because theoretical knowledge needs to be tested in practice before it can be internalized as your knowledge.
Also, you can look back on your past relationships to see what you could have done better, and then work on improving and enhancing them in a targeted way. This will help you to gradually improve your ability to love.
I also hope you can understand that true love is created by two real, independent people. You don't have to act childish, and you're the best you there ever was! You can do something to improve the situation.
As you start taking action, you'll find that all those negative feelings start to melt away. Sometimes, taking action is the best way to beat those negative emotions.
I really hope my answer helps! If you want to chat some more, just click on "Find a coach" at the bottom and I'll be in touch.
Comments
It sounds like you've been through a lot with your ex, and it's understandable to feel hesitant in new relationships. It's important to find someone who appreciates you for who you are and doesn't make you feel like you have to suppress your true self.
I can relate to the struggle of wanting to be close to someone but feeling scared at the same time. After my own breakup, I also preferred staying home with my pet and books. It took me a while to realize that it's okay to take things slow and prioritize my own happiness.
You're not alone in feeling anxious when waiting for replies. I think it's natural to want reassurance. Maybe setting boundaries for yourself on how much you engage can help ease that anxiety. It's all about finding a balance that feels right for you.
It's really brave of you to continue exploring relationships despite past disappointments. Sometimes, we meet people who help us grow and learn more about ourselves. Trusting again is tough, but it might lead to something beautiful if you allow yourself to open up gradually.
Feeling passive and negative can be a protective mechanism after being hurt. But remember, not everyone is like your ex. There are secure types out there who would welcome your initiative. Perhaps focusing on building your confidence and doing what feels authentic to you could pave the way for healthier connections.