LibraryScenariosWhen couples exhaust themselves trying to create perfect celebrations
Scenario

When couples exhaust themselves trying to create perfect celebrations

My partner and I keep planning these elaborate anniversary celebrations every year and then feeling exhausted and disconnected afterward instead of closer and I think we're trying too hard to make the day prove something about our relationship instead of just being together but neither of us wants to suggest scaling back because it feels like giving up.

Laozi
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The desire to honor something precious can paradoxically distance you from the simple presence that made it precious in the first place.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Ceremony and marking time?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.