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How many misses are going to block you in the next link?

Started by copperfox22 · · 👁 9 views · 200 replies

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Participants copperfox22Lawrence Patel9Lisa Collins24Walter PetersonAngela Bennett23loneowl39granitefalcon26wiredmoose3Adam Barrettnorthernwolf3ruggedfalcon30Jeremy Torres5Arthur Booth96placidrangercrimsonheron80Mark Hughes36Ronald Garcia5cosmictinker21ruggedhound26Matthew Castillo5Thomas Moore3wearyhawk83Gary Ruiz17driftingeagle27 …
ruggedfalcon30 ruggedfalcon30 Member
14 messages
joined Feb 2005
#61 ·
ruggedfalcon30 said:I’ve been in love exactly twice in my entire life, and wouldn't you know it, I managed to commit Samosabotage on both occasions. The first time was pure instinct—I actually pushed her away physically when she tried to touch me or lean in for a kiss. With the second one, things were even more pathetic; I acted like an absolute jerk just to create distance, successfully driving her away, and now I’m left sitting here dealing with the fallout and the regret.
It's not just the big relationships, either; I keep doing this same dance with random women I meet along the way. Take this girl I met recently, for instance... I actually liked her. We didn't see or talk to each other for a while, but then we ran into each other out in the world, and she was practically throwing herself at me. Instead of stepping up, I just turned my back and walked away like a coward. Of course, she ended up screaming insults at me after I left.😬
What the hell is actually wrong with us Samosabotage types?

Look, the reason I even brought this up was because I honestly expected you all to dig a bit deeper and actually engage with the topic...😬
I know exactly what my deal is and why I fall into this trap of self-sabotage—and trust me, I’m not going to bore everyone with the granular details—but essentially, I am fighting an uphill battle against my own nature because the alternative is ending up alone, bitter, and completely broken...
Now, my massive problem right now is the crushing realization that I absolutely blew it and destroyed a relationship with a woman I truly loved just because I lost my damn mind and pushed her away whenever she tried to get close to me... For instance, I ran into her in downtown Chicago once and we chatted for a bit, then I started walking toward the bus stop and ended up boarding the wrong bus entirely😬just because seeing her made my brain go completely numb... I've moved past that specific moment and I'm fine with it, but my fear is, when am I going to screw up again by jumping on the wrong bus because of some other person?! When am I ever going to feel that spark again, where just the thought of someone else actually brings a genuine smile back to my face...?
Adam Barrett Adam Barrett Member
33 messages
joined Jul 2018
#62 ·
ruggedfalcon30 said:Look, the reason I even brought this up was because I honestly expected you all to dig a bit deeper and actually engage with the topic...😬
I know exactly what my deal is and why I fall into this trap of self-sabotage—and trust me, I’m not going to bore everyone with the granular details—but essentially, I am fighting an uphill battle against my own nature because the alternative is ending up alone, bitter, and completely broken...
Now, my massive problem right now is the crushing realization that I absolutely blew it and destroyed a relationship with a woman I truly loved just because I lost my damn mind and pushed her away whenever she tried to get close to me... For instance, I ran into her in downtown Chicago once and we chatted for a bit, then I started walking toward the bus stop and ended up boarding the wrong bus entirely😬just because seeing her made my brain go completely numb... I've moved past that specific moment and I'm fine with it, but my fear is, when am I going to screw up again by jumping on the wrong bus because of some other person?! When am I ever going to feel that spark again, where just the thought of someone else actually brings a genuine smile back to my face...?

Or maybe she's out there floating too, just thinking you don't care 😢
copperfox22 copperfox22 Active MemberOP
75 messages
joined Feb 2008
#63 ·
Adam Barrett said:Yeah, I get it. 😢 I was waiting to see what everyone else had to say before jumping in (didn't want to 🙂) because, honestly, it seems like all the people I think are self-sabotaging have always ended up hurting just one specific person, so I really wanted to hear your take on that.

One person basically took up a massive chunk of my life. There were good times and bad ones, but honestly, it doesn't matter now. It happened, it's over, it's done. The thing is, things just aren't working out lately, and I really want to start this whole new chapter. I want to leave the past exactly where it belongs. And look, I let her go without any drama. But damn, I feel like I’m playing with a handicap or something now.

I don't know. All I know is that for quite a while now, there hasn't been any real luck or joy when it comes to love, and frankly, it's getting a little depressing. So now I'm wondering—where is the catch? 😁
crimsonheron80 crimsonheron80 Active Member
103 messages
joined Apr 2009
#64 ·
My prince on a white horse hasn't arrived yet.☕
ruggedfalcon30 ruggedfalcon30 Member
14 messages
joined Feb 2005
#65 ·
Adam Barrett said:Or maybe she's out there floating too, just thinking you don't care 😢

Look, there might have been times when she was drifting and truly believed I was indifferent... but honestly, at this point, the whole thing is just a finished, ugly, and deeply depressing chapter of my life.😢
Walter Peterson Walter Peterson Active Member
63 messages
joined Nov 2012
#66 ·
ruggedfalcon30 said:Look, the reason I even brought this up was because I honestly expected you all to dig a bit deeper and actually engage with the topic...😬
I know exactly what my deal is and why I fall into this trap of self-sabotage—and trust me, I’m not going to bore everyone with the granular details—but essentially, I am fighting an uphill battle against my own nature because the alternative is ending up alone, bitter, and completely broken...
Now, my massive problem right now is the crushing realization that I absolutely blew it and destroyed a relationship with a woman I truly loved just because I lost my damn mind and pushed her away whenever she tried to get close to me... For instance, I ran into her in downtown Chicago once and we chatted for a bit, then I started walking toward the bus stop and ended up boarding the wrong bus entirely😬just because seeing her made my brain go completely numb... I've moved past that specific moment and I'm fine with it, but my fear is, when am I going to screw up again by jumping on the wrong bus because of some other person?! When am I ever going to feel that spark again, where just the thought of someone else actually brings a genuine smile back to my face...?

How tragic. I once dealt with a self-saboteur myself. It is truly exhausting when people who refuse to help themselves end up dragging everyone else down into the abyss with them.
wiredmoose3 wiredmoose3 Member
30 messages
joined May 2009
#67 ·
copperfox22 said:Well, it isn’t huge, though there’s still some variety, even if everything is pretty much centered around the West Coast. 😁 I don't really meet a ton of new people, but honestly, I'm also starting to feel less interested in doing so. At the same time, I still want that special connection to happen—even if it doesn't last forever, I just want to feel some kind of meaningful spark.🙂

There's definitely a lot of that going on. I'm just done with the heartache, the mistakes, and all the wrong turns.

Here’s my take—it’s just part of the deal, whether we like it or not. You don't get any payoff unless you're willing to put something on the line...
So if this is all still feeling "fresh" to you, then these kinds of doubts are perfectly standard...
We’ll have our moment to vent and complain, and then we’ll just go back to spinning the wheel.🙂
ruggedfalcon30 ruggedfalcon30 Member
14 messages
joined Feb 2005
#68 ·
Walter Peterson said:How tragic. I once dealt with a self-saboteur myself. It is truly exhausting when people who refuse to help themselves end up dragging everyone else down into the abyss with them.

See, that's exactly why—because I was in such a dark, messy place myself—I didn't want to hurt her in any way, so I ended up pushing her away, being cold and distant because I honestly didn't know how else to handle it... if I'm being real, I was just trying to protect her from my own mess... but in the end, the whole thing just went completely south.
and because of that, I spend my nights🙂
northernwolf3 northernwolf3 Member
14 messages
joined Oct 2009
#69 ·
copperfox22 said:Well, it isn’t huge, though there’s still some variety, even if everything is pretty much centered around the West Coast. 😁 I don't really meet a ton of new people, but honestly, I'm also starting to feel less interested in doing so. At the same time, I still want that special connection to happen—even if it doesn't last forever, I just want to feel some kind of meaningful spark.🙂

There's definitely a lot of that going on. I'm just done with the heartache, the mistakes, and all the wrong turns.

it's honestly just like that discussion we had about the forest trails and the marathon😁

It’s a tricky spot to be in... you want someone, but you also want them to check all your boxes
And again, you can't just change your criteria because those standards are fundamentally part of who you are
Besides, there’s absolutely no point in trying to force something that isn't there

There's plenty of that to go around. I just don't want any more heartache, mistakes, or walking down the wrong paths.

Maybe that mindset is actually what's holding you back
Because you're so afraid of heading down the wrong path, you tell yourself immediately, "No, this is the wrong way, I'm not even going there"
The whole trial-and-error approach isn't really a solution in this case, but deep down, you know there isn't any other way
Unless you believe that the right person will just magically appear on their own... or will they? 🤷
Love is essentially a state of being vulnerable... it's just that as we get older, we become increasingly reluctant to let ourselves be vulnerable
And sometimes, you just need a little bit of luck on your side
copperfox22 copperfox22 Active MemberOP
75 messages
joined Feb 2008
#70 ·
placidranger said:I don't look at them as "fuck-ups"—as if my exes left me with some lingering trauma. They don't affect me one bit. 🤷
I learned what I needed to learn, and that's that. I didn't turn hyper-vigilant, and I didn't become bitter. Everything is fine.

My standards are just different now—or more accurately, I actually have standards, which is a net positive.

Personally, I’ve become a little skeptical and maybe a bit cynical. I guess that's just the effect of getting older...everything feels easier when you're young...okay, okay, I'm not ancient, but I'm definitely not in my early twenties anymore.😁

I have different criteria now—or rather, I actually *have* criteria, which is a good thing.

Wait, what? Did you change your standards or something? I don't see how changing my criteria solves anything, because at my core, I'm still pretty much the same person, so nothing really changes.

placidranger said:That fear didn't just appear out of thin air—it’s there because certain types of people simply don't fit your life.
At the end of the day, you just have to figure out which of those red flags are grounded in reality and which ones are just irrational anxieties. 🤷

The fear comes from something I said earlier: whenever I actually like someone, I get this feeling—whether it's rational or not, it's there—that it won't work out because I won't be their type, or I'll pick up on something in them that I just can't stomach.
Am I being foolish for wanting what I need?

Certain things are absolute non-negotiables for me, damn it 🤷...some more than others, but I can't do things halfway. I've been through that already and I refused to settle for it. That's why I walked away from everything after years of effort, investment, compromise, and total exhaustion.
copperfox22 copperfox22 Active MemberOP
75 messages
joined Feb 2008
#71 ·
northernwolf3 said:it's honestly just like that discussion we had about the forest trails and the marathon😁

It’s a tricky spot to be in... you want someone, but you also want them to check all your boxes
And again, you can't just change your criteria because those standards are fundamentally part of who you are
Besides, there’s absolutely no point in trying to force something that isn't there

There's plenty of that to go around. I just don't want any more heartache, mistakes, or walking down the wrong paths.

Maybe that mindset is actually what's holding you back
Because you're so afraid of heading down the wrong path, you tell yourself immediately, "No, this is the wrong way, I'm not even going there"
The whole trial-and-error approach isn't really a solution in this case, but deep down, you know there isn't any other way
Unless you believe that the right person will just magically appear on their own... or will they? 🤷
Love is essentially a state of being vulnerable... it's just that as we get older, we become increasingly reluctant to let ourselves be vulnerable
And sometimes, you just need a little bit of luck on your side

Yeah, something along those lines. 🙂
wiredmoose3 wiredmoose3 Member
30 messages
joined May 2009
#72 ·
"I don't want any more suffering, mistakes, or wrong turns"
That’s basically like saying you don't want to live at all... soon enough you'll say "I want to," I can see it coming🙂...but here's the catch—you won't actually accept it. As crimsonheron80 pointed out, everything you listed is an essential part of life. As long as we reject or deny even one piece of it, we're just acting like children—or Noah's Ark passengers, if you prefer
. By the way, I wasn't watching the clock, but the entries in the logbook were matching up perfectly😁
. Every situation in life is whatever we decide to paint it—beautiful or ugly. Why label exes as "mistakes" or "wrong turns"? Why not call them experience or teachers?... Or, for starters, just call them exes🙂
. And suffering? Suffering is necessary. Without it, there's no progress, no personal growth, no appreciation for beauty. Do you really think someone who's always happy and satisfied is ever going to move forward from where they are? Unlikely
. Love is vulnerability, love is pain, love is truth, love is like fine wine... blah, blah, blah. Look, I have no clue what love actually is, but I know I'll fight with everything I've got to find it
. If I fail, and even if fortuna turns her back on me, I'm still going to make sure I don't leave the battlefield empty-handed🙂
. ..because what else is there left to do?
placidranger placidranger Regular
339 messages
joined Sep 2004
#73 ·
copperfox22 said:Personally, I’ve become a little skeptical and maybe a bit cynical. I guess that's just the effect of getting older...everything feels easier when you're young...okay, okay, I'm not ancient, but I'm definitely not in my early twenties anymore.😁

I have different criteria now—or rather, I actually *have* criteria, which is a good thing.

Wait, what? Did you change your standards or something? I don't see how changing my criteria solves anything, because at my core, I'm still pretty much the same person, so nothing really changes.

The fear comes from something I said earlier: whenever I actually like someone, I get this feeling—whether it's rational or not, it's there—that it won't work out because I won't be their type, or I'll pick up on something in them that I just can't stomach.
Am I being foolish for wanting what I need?

Certain things are absolute non-negotiables for me, damn it 🤷...some more than others, but I can't do things halfway. I've been through that already and I refused to settle for it. That's why I walked away from everything after years of effort, investment, compromise, and total exhaustion.

Years aren't exactly consistent—not that anyone expected them to be. 🙂 Look, being skeptical is fine—it’s actually healthy. There are far too many idiots running around in expensive suits pretending they know what they're doing.
What, did you just move the goalposts? I don't see how changing the criteria actually solves anything—I’m still essentially the same person at my core, so we're right back where we started. It won't change the outcome.

It all started with that classic line—"as long as she's a woman." 🙂 I didn't have a clue what I actually wanted—everything seemed fine enough at first. Then, bit by bit, I started figuring out what actually worked for me. My standards just kept climbing across the board—constantly shifting, constantly evolving.
I don't view my standards as part of who I am—they're more like a mold. It’s a filter that someone has to pass through before I decide they're worth anything more. Sometimes, people slip right through despite being completely wrong for me. In those cases, I tighten the requirements. Other times, I loosen them up just to see what happens when I let something unpredictable into the mix.
The fear comes from a realization I’ve had before—I'm basically just quoting myself here. If I actually start liking someone, this nagging feeling kicks in. It doesn't matter if it's irrational or not; it's there. I get this sense that things won't work out because I simply won't fit their mold—or worse, I'll end up being cast in some role in their life that I just can't stomach.
Am I crazy for wanting exactly what I need?

Some things are just non-negotiable essentials—dammit. 🤷I can't do "halfway." I’ve already lived through that dream once—it was a nightmare—and there was just no way I could settle for a lopsided relationship. That’s exactly why I walked away from it all after years of endless attempts, constant investing, and nothing but compromises that left me empty-handed.

Are you actually certain about what you need? Are you positive that *that* specific thing is what’s going to make you happy—and not just some other distraction?
northernwolf3 northernwolf3 Member
14 messages
joined Oct 2009
#74 ·
wiredmoose3 As if I haven't heard this one before!
I’m just at a point where I’ve had enough of the struggle, the constant mistakes, and all those wrong turns that seem to lead nowhere. I honestly don't have any desire to chase after more heartache or deal with the fallout of bad decisions anymore; I'm ready for some peace.
It honestly feels like you’re saying you don't even want to live life at all... but I know how this goes, you'll just end up changing your mind and saying "I do" eventually, I'm certain of it.🙂And that’s exactly where the catch lies—it all comes down to the fact that you just won't accept him.

I wouldn't exactly go so far as to say that copperfox22 is completely unwilling to embrace life, including all the inevitable suffering and the messy, difficult parts that come along with it.
She’s just done with taking the long way around anymore, you know? Honestly, she’s just reached her limit—it's exhausting to keep going in circles like that, and it's honestly wearing a person down.
Even when you’re fully aware that there isn’t any other way to look at it—that eventually, you’re inevitably going to mess things up again—there’s still this deep, nagging desire to just wish those screw-ups were kept to an absolute minimum.
And then you think about just taking a little break to clear your head... but honestly, even that doesn't quite hit the mark.🤷

It’s honestly such a heavy feeling when you hit that specific stage of life where you just start questioning everything, wondering if it’s even worth the effort to try something new or see where things might lead. You find yourself stuck in this exhausting loop of wanting to move forward, yet you're simultaneously completely dissatisfied with the way things are right now, which leaves you feeling totally paralyzed by the uncertainty of what's actually ahead.
Humans are fundamentally social creatures who thrive on connection, and while having a solid circle of friends and supportive family members is absolutely essential for a balanced life, there is still this subtle, missing piece to the puzzle that remains elusive in almost any other context. There is a very specific, unique kind of intimacy—that deep, singular closeness—that you just can't quite replicate through platonic bonds or kinship, and it’s something you can only truly experience within the framework of a romantic relationship.
The world isn't going to end just because you don't have that one specific thing, and honestly, you eventually learn how to make peace with whatever life hands you, but there’s always going to be that tiny little ache lingering deep inside, a persistent little sting that refuses to fully fade away—and you really shouldn't try to crush it out of existence.
You really have to let the whole thing cocoon itself first, just sitting back and waiting to see if a butterfly actually emerges from the shell—because, honestly, once that transformation starts, you aren't looking at a caterpillar anymore, you're looking at something entirely different.😁It’s just one of those things, you know... whether we're talking about those stunningly beautiful wings or that deep, heavy gloom that seems to settle in during the night, I can't help but wonder if anything actually gets better, or if some things just stay broken forever.
The real struggle is that you just don't have the stomach to sit around and wait anymore, especially when you're stuck staring into the void without any clue what's actually going to happen next.

By the way, I was just checking my watch and realized that everything Peje had written down in the logbook didn't actually line up with the actual time.

It really just boils down to this: an A grade is usually the direct result of actual knowledge, whereas a failing grade is typically just the fallout of not knowing anything at all.
You know, you should probably drop by the old neighborhood spots every once in a while, even if you aren't exactly paying close attention to everything going on—just a quick visit to say hello, provided you don't overstay your welcome.😁

Is suffering actually a good thing? I honestly believe it is, and there’s a real necessity to it. Without going through those difficult, painful stretches, you simply don't see any genuine progress or meaningful personal growth, nor do you ever truly learn to appreciate the deeper beauty in life. Think about it—is a person who is constantly comfortable and perfectly content ever going to be pushed out of their comfort zone? It’s highly unlikely. Real movement only happens when things get tough.

It’s honestly such a blast to just embrace the struggle sometimes, you know? There is something incredibly liberating about pushing yourself to the absolute limit, like sprinting full tilt toward a finish line in a place like Boulder, Colorado, when you've still got that youthful energy and a bit of madness in your soul. When you're young and feeling reckless, those moments where you're gasping for air and testing your own boundaries are exactly what make life feel vivid and real.
When you finally reach a certain age, there’s this incredible sense of peace that settles in, where being genuinely happy and content becomes the ultimate goal, and honestly, there is nothing quite like the simple pleasure of taking a slow, steady stroll, even if you aren't exactly covering much ground.

placidranger said:Years aren't exactly consistent—not that anyone expected them to be. 🙂 Look, being skeptical is fine—it’s actually healthy. There are far too many idiots running around in expensive suits pretending they know what they're doing.
What, did you just move the goalposts? I don't see how changing the criteria actually solves anything—I’m still essentially the same person at my core, so we're right back where we started. It won't change the outcome.

It all started with that classic line—"as long as she's a woman." 🙂 I didn't have a clue what I actually wanted—everything seemed fine enough at first. Then, bit by bit, I started figuring out what actually worked for me. My standards just kept climbing across the board—constantly shifting, constantly evolving.
I don't view my standards as part of who I am—they're more like a mold. It’s a filter that someone has to pass through before I decide they're worth anything more. Sometimes, people slip right through despite being completely wrong for me. In those cases, I tighten the requirements. Other times, I loosen them up just to see what happens when I let something unpredictable into the mix.
The fear comes from a realization I’ve had before—I'm basically just quoting myself here. If I actually start liking someone, this nagging feeling kicks in. It doesn't matter if it's irrational or not; it's there. I get this sense that things won't work out because I simply won't fit their mold—or worse, I'll end up being cast in some role in their life that I just can't stomach.
Am I crazy for wanting exactly what I need?

Some things are just non-negotiable essentials—dammit. 🤷I can't do "halfway." I’ve already lived through that dream once—it was a nightmare—and there was just no way I could settle for a lopsided relationship. That’s exactly why I walked away from it all after years of endless attempts, constant investing, and nothing but compromises that left me empty-handed.

Are you actually certain about what you need? Are you positive that *that* specific thing is what’s going to make you happy—and not just some other distraction?

It isn't just about getting older... there is so much more weighing on you... the disappointments, the heartache, all those awkward experiences... and honestly, that growing lack of energy to constantly be out and about searching for something.
Sometimes it’s just nice to sit down and relax, especially when your legs are aching from being on the move all day.😁

It all started with the simple idea of "as long as she's a woman." 🙂 Back then, I didn't have a clue what I actually wanted, and everything seemed perfect. But gradually, I started figuring out what truly fits my life, so my standards began to grow and shift across all sorts of different areas as I adapted.

I think everyone goes through this... once you realize there are fundamental differences between men and women... you start by looking at their temperament.. that's usually where the distinction first hits you.😁
Then you eventually realize there are other layers to it... and you find yourself trying to ensure those other differences stay as minimal as possible.
The technical term for it would be... maturity.😁
I don't really view my criteria as an extension of my identity, but rather as a mold that someone has to pass through before I decide to take things further. Sometimes people who are totally wrong for me slip through, so I tighten the mold in certain spots, and other times I loosen it up a bit just to see what happens if I let something unexpected and unpredictable in.


To me, it looks more like those criteria are part of who you are, you're just being flexible in how you apply them.
Everyone has their own threshold for tolerance... you aren't going to build a rigid mold to exact specifications and never change it, not even then.
But if your mold is three liters big... one person isn't going to fill it up.
And yet... if you try to force five liters into it... you might manage to fit four once you loosen things up, but that fifth liter is always going to be extra, no matter how you look at it.
Are you absolutely sure you know what you need? That *this* is exactly what will make you happy, rather than something else entirely?

Look... I honestly don't know if what I want is 100% what will actually make me happy.
Right now, I think it is... but thinking about it is a real headache.
But then again... how can I think about anything else when I've only got this one brain to work with?🤷
I'd much prefer if I didn't have to think at all—if I could either just naturally encounter exactly what I need, or if I could just stop caring about the things I haven't figured out yet.
But neither of those is going to happen... I'll still be overthinking, and it won't just magically appear.
So you just sit there thinking... and then what?😁
Walter Peterson Walter Peterson Active Member
63 messages
joined Nov 2012
#75 ·
As some people have pointed out here, you also need a little bit of luck to navigate this whole situation.
copperfox22 copperfox22 Active MemberOP
75 messages
joined Feb 2008
#76 ·
placidranger said:Years aren't exactly consistent—not that anyone expected them to be. 🙂 Look, being skeptical is fine—it’s actually healthy. There are far too many idiots running around in expensive suits pretending they know what they're doing.
What, did you just move the goalposts? I don't see how changing the criteria actually solves anything—I’m still essentially the same person at my core, so we're right back where we started. It won't change the outcome.

It all started with that classic line—"as long as she's a woman." 🙂 I didn't have a clue what I actually wanted—everything seemed fine enough at first. Then, bit by bit, I started figuring out what actually worked for me. My standards just kept climbing across the board—constantly shifting, constantly evolving.
I don't view my standards as part of who I am—they're more like a mold. It’s a filter that someone has to pass through before I decide they're worth anything more. Sometimes, people slip right through despite being completely wrong for me. In those cases, I tighten the requirements. Other times, I loosen them up just to see what happens when I let something unpredictable into the mix.
The fear comes from a realization I’ve had before—I'm basically just quoting myself here. If I actually start liking someone, this nagging feeling kicks in. It doesn't matter if it's irrational or not; it's there. I get this sense that things won't work out because I simply won't fit their mold—or worse, I'll end up being cast in some role in their life that I just can't stomach.
Am I crazy for wanting exactly what I need?

Some things are just non-negotiable essentials—dammit. 🤷I can't do "halfway." I’ve already lived through that dream once—it was a nightmare—and there was just no way I could settle for a lopsided relationship. That’s exactly why I walked away from it all after years of endless attempts, constant investing, and nothing but compromises that left me empty-handed.

Are you actually certain about what you need? Are you positive that *that* specific thing is what’s going to make you happy—and not just some other distraction?

🤣 This logic works fine when you're 16 versus 46... but man, wouldn't it be great if things actually worked out like this 🙏

I occasionally loosen my grip just a bit to see what happens if I let something unusual or unpredictable slip through.

What'll happen? A total mess, that's what. 🙄

Are you absolutely certain you know what you need? That THIS is truly what will make you happy, rather than something else entirely?

I think I am. I've had plenty of time behind me to figure out what might actually bring me happiness in that regard. If you think I have some perfectly etched blueprint or mental image in my head, you're wrong. A few deviations aren't really the issue... I suppose that’s where tolerance comes in. It's the big stuff, the foundations, that worry me more. I don't know, I just find myself spiraling into these thoughts from time to time when I'm feeling down, but it's becoming a frequent habit lately, which has forced me to reflect. Maybe there's an actual issue with me and my poor judgment. 🤷 Perhaps there's some psychological quirk at play here.

@northernwolf3—are you sewing? 😁
Lawrence Patel9 Lawrence Patel9 Member
13 messages
joined Oct 2009
#77 ·
copperfox22 said:🤣 This logic works fine when you're 16 versus 46... but man, wouldn't it be great if things actually worked out like this 🙏

I occasionally loosen my grip just a bit to see what happens if I let something unusual or unpredictable slip through.

What'll happen? A total mess, that's what. 🙄

Are you absolutely certain you know what you need? That THIS is truly what will make you happy, rather than something else entirely?

I think I am. I've had plenty of time behind me to figure out what might actually bring me happiness in that regard. If you think I have some perfectly etched blueprint or mental image in my head, you're wrong. A few deviations aren't really the issue... I suppose that’s where tolerance comes in. It's the big stuff, the foundations, that worry me more. I don't know, I just find myself spiraling into these thoughts from time to time when I'm feeling down, but it's becoming a frequent habit lately, which has forced me to reflect. Maybe there's an actual issue with me and my poor judgment. 🤷 Perhaps there's some psychological quirk at play here.

@northernwolf3—are you sewing? 😁

Who knows? Maybe you're just someone who overthinks everything and spends too much time stuck in your own head instead of actually being out there. I used to be exactly like that. Always caught up in future plans, always somewhere else mentally. Now? I'm trying to actually live in the moment and make it count. Who knows, maybe tomorrow won't feel like such a grind if I do.

The trick is probably just drowning yourself in things that actually make you happy.
Mark Hughes36 Mark Hughes36 Active Member
109 messages
joined Feb 2023
#78 ·
copperfox22 said:I’m not sure if we’ve covered a topic like this before. If we have, mods, feel free to lock this thread.

After reading through some of the discussions here and doing a bit of my own reflecting, I’ve been thinking about those "ghosts from the past" and how much weight they actually carry for us. Obviously, everyone is different—some of us are tougher, some more sensitive, some more confident—but I think there’s a common thread we can pull on. So, here’s my question: how much are your past romantic failures and poor choices subconsciously (or even consciously) holding you back when you try to move forward?

To kick things off, I’ll be honest about myself. I’ve started wondering if I’m just making excuses under the guise of "life getting in the way," essentially sabotaging my chances at finding a real connection. It’s not that I’m shy or confused about what I want, and I don't really deal with massive complexes (at least nothing that feels like a major issue)... I tend to march to the beat of my own drum and don't always follow social norms, though I wouldn't say I'm a rebel, since I generally fit in just fine with society.

To cut to the chase, as much as I try to convince myself otherwise, I think I still carry some baggage from my past that’s starting to cause friction. Instead of throwing myself into meeting new people or experiencing new things with an open heart right from the jump, I find myself internally telling myself, "Don't bother, it’ll just be another bust... stay guarded, keep your distance."

I can't tell if my brain is doing this because it genuinely believes I have a knack for picking the wrong people, or if it’s just a defense mechanism—a fear that if I actually dare to trust someone, I’ll just end up disappointed all over again.
Sometimes I catch myself wondering if there's a reason I'm perpetually drawn to the wrong crowd. Why does that happen? Because, honestly, the "perfectly stable" types usually don't interest me at all 😕... they're always these eccentric characters, slightly off in one way or another. Now, combined with everything else, it’s creating a total mental block. It’s like the moment I find someone attractive, there's always some glaring, dangerous flaw 😬

Anyway, bottom line: how much are your failed relationships and past mistakes actually messing with your head? 😁

It’s clear you have a need to second-guess everything.
Honestly, I think you're heading down the wrong path here. If you want a more accurate take on what just happened, it’s simple: you just didn't get lucky. You failed to run into someone who actually wanted the same thing you did.
I didn't see it that way. I don't think you're self-sabotaging at all. 😉)

copperfox22 said:I’m not sure if we’ve covered a topic like this before. If we have, mods, feel free to lock this thread.

After reading through some of the discussions here and doing a bit of my own reflecting, I’ve been thinking about those "ghosts from the past" and how much weight they actually carry for us. Obviously, everyone is different—some of us are tougher, some more sensitive, some more confident—but I think there’s a common thread we can pull on. So, here’s my question: how much are your past romantic failures and poor choices subconsciously (or even consciously) holding you back when you try to move forward?

To kick things off, I’ll be honest about myself. I’ve started wondering if I’m just making excuses under the guise of "life getting in the way," essentially sabotaging my chances at finding a real connection. It’s not that I’m shy or confused about what I want, and I don't really deal with massive complexes (at least nothing that feels like a major issue)... I tend to march to the beat of my own drum and don't always follow social norms, though I wouldn't say I'm a rebel, since I generally fit in just fine with society.

To cut to the chase, as much as I try to convince myself otherwise, I think I still carry some baggage from my past that’s starting to cause friction. Instead of throwing myself into meeting new people or experiencing new things with an open heart right from the jump, I find myself internally telling myself, "Don't bother, it’ll just be another bust... stay guarded, keep your distance."

I can't tell if my brain is doing this because it genuinely believes I have a knack for picking the wrong people, or if it’s just a defense mechanism—a fear that if I actually dare to trust someone, I’ll just end up disappointed all over again.
Sometimes I catch myself wondering if there's a reason I'm perpetually drawn to the wrong crowd. Why does that happen? Because, honestly, the "perfectly stable" types usually don't interest me at all 😕... they're always these eccentric characters, slightly off in one way or another. Now, combined with everything else, it’s creating a total mental block. It’s like the moment I find someone attractive, there's always some glaring, dangerous flaw 😬

Anyway, bottom line: how much are your failed relationships and past mistakes actually messing with your head? 😁

Your desires are perfectly normal and legitimate.
I don't buy the idea that change is mandatory.
All you really need is to find someone who sees the world through the same lens as you do.

Just to be clear, there’s no hierarchy here: every way of looking at life holds its own weight. If you aren't weighed down by obligations, you have every right to choose exactly how you want to live.

copperfox22 said:I’m not sure if we’ve covered a topic like this before. If we have, mods, feel free to lock this thread.

After reading through some of the discussions here and doing a bit of my own reflecting, I’ve been thinking about those "ghosts from the past" and how much weight they actually carry for us. Obviously, everyone is different—some of us are tougher, some more sensitive, some more confident—but I think there’s a common thread we can pull on. So, here’s my question: how much are your past romantic failures and poor choices subconsciously (or even consciously) holding you back when you try to move forward?

To kick things off, I’ll be honest about myself. I’ve started wondering if I’m just making excuses under the guise of "life getting in the way," essentially sabotaging my chances at finding a real connection. It’s not that I’m shy or confused about what I want, and I don't really deal with massive complexes (at least nothing that feels like a major issue)... I tend to march to the beat of my own drum and don't always follow social norms, though I wouldn't say I'm a rebel, since I generally fit in just fine with society.

To cut to the chase, as much as I try to convince myself otherwise, I think I still carry some baggage from my past that’s starting to cause friction. Instead of throwing myself into meeting new people or experiencing new things with an open heart right from the jump, I find myself internally telling myself, "Don't bother, it’ll just be another bust... stay guarded, keep your distance."

I can't tell if my brain is doing this because it genuinely believes I have a knack for picking the wrong people, or if it’s just a defense mechanism—a fear that if I actually dare to trust someone, I’ll just end up disappointed all over again.
Sometimes I catch myself wondering if there's a reason I'm perpetually drawn to the wrong crowd. Why does that happen? Because, honestly, the "perfectly stable" types usually don't interest me at all 😕... they're always these eccentric characters, slightly off in one way or another. Now, combined with everything else, it’s creating a total mental block. It’s like the moment I find someone attractive, there's always some glaring, dangerous flaw 😬

Anyway, bottom line: how much are your failed relationships and past mistakes actually messing with your head? 😁

You're exaggerating a bit. Though, I suppose the idea that "nice guys aren't interesting" isn't entirely without merit. 😁)
Honestly, this kind of exaggeration acts as a defense mechanism—a way to lean on stereotypes to justify failure. 😉

Since we’re already touching on this stereotype, I have to say I agree with cimmerian—a good number of men don't actually have an issue with curves.
I don't follow.
copperfox22 copperfox22 Active MemberOP
75 messages
joined Feb 2008
#79 ·
Oh look, you finally decided to show up, 🙂

But hey, since it’s you, I guess I can actually take your word for it—which, let's be honest, is still a step up from my own 😬
. You're definitely more seasoned and sensible than some clueless kid at 🤣
. Come on, say something nice to brighten my mood a bit.

@Lawrence Patel9 — You're overthinking things, man. It is what it is. 😳

Besides, I don't spend my time judging people... at least, not when they aren't being completely ridiculous. 😁
Mark Hughes36 Mark Hughes36 Active Member
109 messages
joined Feb 2023
#80 ·
I have zero doubt you’ll stumble upon someone interesting again soon—since you're such an incurable optimist and dreamer. Maybe this time they'll actually share your worldview... 🙂

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