A Testament To Investment

We live with the expectation that an investment will be followed by a return. We give in order to get. We expect that the return will be value-added.

And, while that may be reasonable and understandable in the financial world, it does not necessarily apply in the emotional world.

Relationships founder when one of the parties involved feels their contribution is not only disrespected but that the other side is failing when it comes to acknowledgement and appreciation.

In a work situation that balance – perceived or real – can be quickly addressed. The offended party can quit and find another job.

When it comes to matters of the heart, it is far more complicated.

How we see ourselves and how we imagine others are seeing us can be the source of compounding mental stress. What we think we need weighed up against what we believe we are getting can be poles apart.

When it comes to emotional connection, it’s more important to consider what we can bring to the table rather than what we can take from it. It’s a matter of giving and there can often be an imbalance. And that balance can fluctuate over time and space for a whole host of reasons.

Not everyone is on the same page when it comes to self-expression. Consideration needs to come before condemnation.

That’s not to suggest that every attempt at emotional connection should be expected to have a positive result. Life is far more complicated that than.

But it needs to be considered that when we give we are not only investing in something outside of ourselves but also something inside of ourselves.

The return on that investment can be inavaluable.