Family Relationships Are Nuts

           We are naturally very needy creatures. If you look at the evolution of a person, one starts manipulating its world from the minute he or she is born. A baby cries to get what it needs, to get held, fed, a new diaper, comforted, loved, etc. A baby cries, and we all stop, immediately, to hold it. 

           Believe it or not, relationships with adults are essentially the same concept. Adults use their words, actions, choices, and behaviors to drive communication and interaction with others, to get what they want. Babies, we are all just babies at the end of the day.

           We need things from one another, like trust, loyalty, help, affection, support, and whatever else you may need from those around you that you love. And when you don’t get these things the way you want or you don’t get enough, life becomes a little messy.

           The reason I post this blog post today is because we are walking into a weekend full of family time. Familial relationships are the ones we don’t get to pick. So sometimes they push us in places we don’t want to be pushed, just because they can. 

           If you find yourself at that family barbecue and Aunt Susie is driving you crazy, take a step back, find your happy place within, and disengage from the relationship. She may or may not mean to, but she is driving you to the place that makes you want to walk away from the screaming baby. 

           Embrace the relationships, the good and the bad, but know that you can monitor yourself. Choose to go pick the baby up or run from the situation. And enjoy your weekend with people who love you. Happy 4th of July y’all. 

Shine On,

Dr. Kate

Dr. Kate Cummins is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based out of Los Angeles, California. I am now accepting new patients in my private practice and through Skype (telehealth). Please look at my website, www.drkatecummins.com and contact me with any questions you may have (424)488-9973 or drkatecummins@gmail.com. This information is meant for education and knowledge expansion. This blog post is not a form of mental health treatment or individual clinical work.