Last week, during a moment of Instagram procrastination scrolling, I found an interesting quote about relationships. Apt, due to the Full Moon in Aries that just took place. The quote spoke of rather than having expectations in a relationship, have requirements instead.
What a revelation!
The requirement to be honest. The requirement to match levels of interest, energy and time. The requirement to remain consistent. It goes both ways.
Think about that for a moment. The word, “expectation,” denotes hopeful anticipation with a hint of wiggle room for disappointment or failure. The word requirement is firm and non-negotiable. While it might sound harsh in a more personal setting, not so much in business. You’re required, not expected, to show up for work on time, for example.
In relationships, we don’t have requirements, we have hopeful expectations. Chemistry, lust and projected feelings can help us forget our requirements in new situations. In established connections, we can get so used to the way things are, we can forget what we actually require.
This week, the sky favors firm, but fair negotiations in all kinds of pairings. Decide what you need, set a boundary and expect nothing less. Solutions to problems arrive when you’re clear.