Do you ever find yourself saying or thinking “I want to be understood. I don’t want to be judged, I want to be seen for who I am”?

You’ve grown, changed your mindset, and have embarked on a journey of the mind and body that’s all your own, right? But still your friends, family or co-workers just don’t get it - or you.

You know their dismissiveness is leading them nowhere. You wish they could just read that book that changed your life, hit up a yoga class, or maybe just try out meditation for once. You tell yourself you want so much more for them.

Which brings us to the question of desire (not in the sexual way - in the sense of wanting in general). Many religions & spiritual scriptures claim desire is a negative emotion - even sinful - but I don’t see it that way. We live our days in a natural cycle of desire and gratification.

Thirst is desire. Hunger is desire. We desire companionship, love and appreciation for our true selves. Desire is part of being human.

But where does it go wrong?

Desire becomes an issue when we focus all of our attention on what we’re not getting. We begin comparing ourselves to others. Envy and resentment start to creep in. Inner peace begins to dissolve. We’ve all been there.

Anytime I hear someone say “I’m trying to take the high road, but my friends or family are not on my level”, that’s a BIG red flag. A red flag of judgement.

That person doesn’t want to be judged, yet they judge these people just the same. Ouch!

We’re all guilty of this, but we can turn it around.

What Do You Want From Those You Love?

What do you expect from others?

First, check your tender spots, the things you feel you’re missing out on. It usually goes something like this: non-competitiveness, understanding, presence, kindness, the ability to hear what’s being said even if you don’t agree... the list goes on.

But you must see that you - and only you - can fill in that space and turn it around. It starts by following your own rules. If you’re not getting something, it may be because you’re not giving it.

When you change how you show up, love and care for someone, then they will shift and change along with you. Though I can’t tell you when, it will inevitably happen.

Spiritual Re-posturing

Second, show up to any situation knowing that you are the divine meeting the divine.

Third, from there, give what you want to get. Be loving, understanding, non-judgemental. See everyone for who they are beyond their challenges.

It’s possible your adversaries haven’t learned the lessons you have. In that case, you should aim to be even more compassionate.

It’s as if you are meeting an old version of yourself.

Now Let’s Put this into Playful Action and Make it Work for You.

Having loving relationships are a blessing. Because you are part of the Owning Pink family I know you are ready to improve your relationships.

What you should do now:

1. Take on this challenge like your life depends on it! What’s a quality you’ve been complaining about that you’re not receiving?
2. Take this one quality, and start giving it to others. For example, stop judging them for what they eat, watch or read…
3. I want to hear from you. Do you agree or disagree? Let me know in the comments below what you are going to start doing to teach others how to treat you.

And for bonus points… share this post with your friends, family or co-workers to bring more ease into your relationships.

Can’t wait to connect with you in the comments.