Modern dating often feels like a paradox—many crave deep connection but shy away when intimacy requires effort. Emotional labour, the work of being present, patient, and vulnerable, is not a weakness but the foundation of genuine love. Yet, when faced with this reality, avoidance takes over. This post explores why some retreat when intimacy deepens, how cognitive dissonance plays a role, and what it means to break free from the cycle of disillusionment

We often become the harshest judges of ourselves, replaying old mistakes and sentencing ourselves to invisible punishments. In The Criminal in Me (Part 3), I share my journey of showing up for myself—no longer as the accused, but as someone who finally deserves compassion.

The past never really rests—it lingers, haunts, and whispers from that endless hallway in our minds. I spent years hiding behind strength, silencing the child in me who once dreamed freely and felt deeply. But healing doesn’t come from erasing those parts—it comes from connection. From allowing the child and the adult to finally sit together in peace. And maybe, just maybe, that’s where the real healing begins.