In romantic relationships, many people experience feelings of restlessness, doubt or confusion about the suitability of their partner.
However, it is difficult to know whether those emotions stem from anxiety in a relationship or from instinct (a natural warning that something is not right).
Cameron Murphy, a licensed marriage and family psychotherapist in Oakland (California, USA), said the key is the obvious level of emotion.
According to Mr. Murphy, intuition is like a clear signal, while anxiety in a relationship is a state of chaos and lack of direction.
In other words, intuition gives you information that can be acted on, while anxiety only makes you confused.
Murphy explains that anxiety in relationships often comes with forced acts. For example, always looking for assurance, checking whether the relationship is right or not, or trying to explain every small detail.
These acts stem from absolute necessity, but reality makes people even more insecure.
On the other hand, intuition is more consistent. It often comes as a clear sense that the relationship is not compatible, even if there is not always concrete evidence.
However, Mr. Murphy emphasized that intuition is not always right and one should not rely entirely on it to make hasty decisions.
According to Murphy, the most important strategy is to stop relying on seeking reassurance. He recommends that each person should allow themselves to move forward in the relationship, even though it is not certain that everything will be perfect.
Accepting that you can't know everything in advance is the most effective way to reduce anxiety and get your mind back in balance.
Mr. Murphy also believes that emotional maturity comes from recognizing that in love there are always many uncontrollable things.
Instead of trying to find the right or wrong answer, the person involved needs to focus on living fully in the present and building a relationship based on trust, dialogue and respect.
Finally, according to psychologist Murphy, each person will find the right path for themselves if they are brave enough to move forward, accept imperfections and not let anxiety lead important decisions.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional advice. Always consult a doctor or psychologist if you have any questions).
