Like most folks, you probably thought having a safe, secure base and being dependent on another human being should be limited to parents and children.
Growing up, you were probably taught, explicitly or implicitly, that the most desirable option for any self-respecting adult was independence; that needing someone… relying on someone… and needing reassurance was a sure sign of weakness.
Fortunately, there’s a new paradigm emerging and the science is clear.
- Effective dependence is optimal and loneliness is a greater risk to your health than smoking.
- Having a close, loving relationship and a partner who provides a safe-haven and secure base – especially in difficult times – calms the central nervous system and soothes the brain.
- Emotional closeness enables you to do more, be more; live more fully and take more risks.
It turns out, effective, healthy and mutual dependence is an extraordinary advantage in life.