Relationship Rules That Actually Matter with Dr. Mark A. Hicks [REPLAY of 'The Love Story Podcast']

In this replay episode of The Learning Love Podcast, Dr. Mark Hicks revisits a powerful conversation from his guest appearance on The Love Story Podcast, hosted by Ashley Green. Together, they explore the realities of relationships, particularly during young adulthood, and unpack the pressures created by societal expectations around love, career, and life milestones.

Dr. Hicks challenges the idea that following a prescribed checklist leads to fulfillment, emphasizing instead the importance of emotional vulnerability, honest communication, and sustained curiosity within relationships. The conversation highlights how grief, growth, and self-awareness are not signs of failure, but essential parts of building meaningful connections.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Hicks introduces and reinforces the five core components of love, offering listeners a thoughtful framework for understanding how healthy relationships are formed, nurtured, and sustained over time. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and consider how learning love is an ongoing, intentional practice.

Key Takeaways

• The twenties are often a turbulent season for relationships
• Societal checklists do not guarantee happiness or fulfillment
• Emotional vulnerability is essential for healthy connections
• Grief is a natural and necessary part of relationships
• Curiosity about one another strengthens intimacy
• Clear communication helps partners understand each other’s needs
• Self-love is foundational to loving others well
• Relationships evolve as people grow and change
• Love requires intention, reflection, and adaptability
• The five components of love provide a framework for thriving relationships

Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love.

Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954

Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/