Good day, host. It is my hope that my response will prove beneficial to you.
The host demonstrates a high level of self-awareness, recognizing his own patterns in interpersonal relationships and his tendency to rely on the responses of others. He is aware that he is not a highly proactive individual, rarely taking the initiative to manage or maintain relationships.
Your current confusion pertains to the question of how to be proactive in interpersonal relationships or how to maintain a relationship without being proactive. However, you also stated that you are occasionally proactive but still expect a response from others. This suggests that your primary confusion is still about the issue of "other people's responses."
It can be reasonably assumed that all individuals aspire to cultivate positive relationships, given that we are social creatures. We require a degree of support and nourishment within the collective, and we also seek a sense of belonging within the group. When one is engaged in a relationship and does not receive a response from others, it can lead to feelings of isolation, a sense of inadequacy, and a lack of confidence in the regard of others.
In order to achieve a greater sense of freedom and relaxation in our relationships and to receive the support and nourishment that we require, it is possible to make the following adjustments.
It is important to acknowledge the possibility that others may not respond in the manner you desire. This requires an examination of the underlying reasons for your dependence on external responses.
Indeed, I previously exhibited similar behaviors. I placed a considerable degree of importance on the responses of others, particularly their approval. In the absence of a response, I experienced feelings of distress and anxiety, leading to self-doubt and concerns about whether the other person had an issue with me. However, it is probable that the majority of the time, other individuals were simply preoccupied and did not hold the same level of dissatisfaction or dislike towards us as we assumed.
I have come to the conclusion that it is not of great consequence whether or not others respond in a timely manner. I have developed a positive outlook, which allows me to understand that there are a number of reasons why a response may be delayed. For example, the individual may be preoccupied, may not have checked their phone in time, or may simply not have considered the issue in sufficient depth. I have learned to trust that a response will eventually be forthcoming. In the meantime, I focus on the tasks at hand and am able to receive responses at a later stage.
Psychological theory posits that if an individual invests a great deal of emotional energy in certain needs, it is because these needs were not met by significant others during their formative years. Consequently, the individual may experience heightened anxiety or even a sense of collapse in the absence of timely responses from important others. This leads to a longing for responses from others that will provide a sense of security and ease. Additionally, individuals may perceive the importance that others attach to them. In fact, a tendency to be particularly dependent on the responses of others represents a way of attaching importance to oneself. This can be expressed more colloquially as a belief that everyone needs to respond to us in a timely manner, otherwise we will feel sad. However, it is important to recognize that we are not the center of the world.
Consequently, when we are able to relinquish the perceived significance of others in our lives, we can foster a sense of ease and autonomy in our relationships.
2. It is imperative to cultivate self-worth and instill a sense of security within oneself. This will enable individuals to experience less anxiety when external responses are lacking.
As previously stated, an internal deficiency will inevitably lead to an external search for solutions. The desire for external responses and attention demonstrates a lack of internal self-worth. It is therefore essential to learn to value and recognize oneself as a person who can identify and affirm one's own self-worth. Affirmation and recognition from others are not a prerequisite for a sense of self-worth. Affirmation and recognition from oneself are equally important. When one is able to affirm and recognize oneself, one gains inner strength and a greater sense of security. This allows one to become less concerned with the external affirmation and recognition of others, as one is already self-sufficient.
It is recommended that the reader peruse the following texts: "Rebuilding Your Life," "Accepting an Imperfect Self," and "Embracing Your Inner Child." These texts will assist the reader in developing inner security and self-confidence, thereby becoming an individual who is capable of liking, recognizing, and valuing themselves.
3. One may engage in selective socialization and gain a sense of belonging and interpersonal nourishment in supportive relationships.
Additionally, you previously indicated that you occasionally take the initiative in certain relationships. Could you please elaborate on these instances and the rationale behind your decision to take the initiative during those times?
Does the sense of safety derived from these relationships facilitate the expression of one's self?
Mr. Zeng Qifeng once posited that humans are social creatures, and that the more relationships one has, the more nourishment one receives, and the faster and better one grows. He defined a nourishing relationship as one that is full of trust, friendly, and supportive, and that offers both love and freedom.
As the number of nurturing and loving relationships in an individual's life increases, so too does their confidence in pursuing happiness and success.
It is therefore recommended that an individual reflect on their relationships and identify those that are conducive to personal growth and wellbeing. In essence, which relationships do you feel safe and relaxed in, and can you feel supported, understood and respected? In these relationships, you will grow to like yourself more and more, because everyone will give you supportive and encouraging feedback, be tolerant of your shortcomings and deficiencies, and be willing to listen to your expressions and opinions.
Some relationships, however, have the opposite effect, causing individuals to feel bad about themselves and leading to a decline in confidence and likeability. Such relationships are not conducive to personal growth and development.
It is therefore imperative to exercise discernment when forming relationships, investing time in those who offer support and understanding, and avoiding those who are hostile, sceptical or dismissive.
In this manner, one may experience greater nourishment and support in their relationships. Additionally, positive relationships can be utilized to "detoxify" negative relationships, thereby facilitating greater comfort and relaxation in one's relationships.
The aforementioned information is provided for your reference.
Best wishes!
Comments
I understand how you feel. It might help to focus on building your confidence and selfassurance, so you feel more comfortable initiating interactions. Also, consider the value you bring to relationships; being proactive can sometimes lead to deeper connections.
Sometimes we all need a push out of our comfort zones. Try setting small goals for yourself in social situations. Each time you take initiative, it's a step forward. Remember, not every attempt will be met with immediate response, but persistence can change this pattern over time.
It's important to find a balance where you're comfortable with your approach to relationships. Perhaps exploring activities you're passionate about can naturally draw people to you. Being around likeminded individuals can make it easier to reach out and engage without feeling too pressured for a response.