Ep61 When What Goes Unsaid Tears Us Apart: Managing Expectations in Relationships

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Ever found yourself thinking, "They should just know what I need"? That silent expectation might be quietly destroying your relationships. In this eye-opening exploration of unspoken and unrealistic expectations, Dr. Dar Hawks reveals why the standards we never verbalize become the invisible architects of our disappointment.

When we expect perfection, constant happiness, or mind-reading abilities from our partners, we create impossible standards no real relationship can meet. Dr. Hawks breaks down how these expectations manifest differently depending on your primary relationship need – whether you prioritize love and belonging, freedom, fun, safety, or power. By understanding which need drives your expectations, you gain crucial insight into the assumptions you make about how others should treat you.

The most powerful revelation? Fulfilling your expectations isn't primarily your partner's responsibility—it's yours. While others can contribute to meeting your needs, the accountability begins with you. Dr. Hawks offers practical strategies for communicating expectations effectively, setting realistic boundaries, and negotiating when expectations differ. She emphasizes the importance of discussing needs during moments of emotional clarity rather than heated arguments.

Perhaps most transformative is becoming the exemplary model of your own expectations. When you consistently demonstrate the behaviors you desire—whether it's open communication, loyalty, or quality time—you create an environment where these values naturally flourish. This approach shifts relationships from battlegrounds of silent demands to spaces for genuine connection and mutual growth.

Ready to transform your relationships? Take the Primary Relationship Needs Quiz at needs.drdarhawks.com to discover which need drives your expectations, or book a one-on-one coaching session at bookings.drdarhawks.com to address specific relationship challenges.

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Take my free Sovereign Relationship Needs Quiz to discover your Primary Relationship Need @ https://needs.drdarhawks.com. This one thing will help you better understand yourself, communication, and your relationship interactions.

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