Unlocking healthy communication: Expert tips to confront instead of ghosting
What's the story
In today's world, handling relationships can be tough, especially when ghosting is so common. While ghosting might seem like an easy way out, it often leaves both parties with unresolved feelings and questions. To help you navigate these situations, relationship coach Jeevika Sharma lays out some practical tips on how to approach tough conversations rather than choosing the route of ghosting.
Honesty
Have a clear and honest conversation
Sharma suggests "talking things out." "If you do not wish to be in contact with that person, have an upfront conversation and wrap things up before leaving," she advises. If the other person is reluctant to leave you, ghosting could be your last choice, as advised by the relationship coach. In cases where your boundaries are ignored, ghosting can help establish the necessary distance.
Explain
Explain and leave
If confronting is tough, the relationship coach advises to "write a message to them and leave." This method allows you to express yourself while avoiding the discomfort of immediate confrontation. The coach believes that if you provide an honest reason, the other person will likely understand your perspective. "Try to give a genuine reason and the other would understand," she further recommends.
Emotions
Face your emotions
If you have developed feelings for someone, she advises having an open conversation with them about it. There's a possibility that "they could be on the same page too." While the idea of potential heartbreak can be daunting, she says, "Running away from it and ghosting the person you like is not an option." Instead, face your feelings upfront.
Mood swings
Seek professional help
The relationship coach points out that many people who are dealing with mental health issues might ghost others due to sudden mood swings. "If you ever feel a severe mood swing and get depressed then you should get professional help as your act of ghosting would affect you too in the future. You would regret your behavior later," Sharma shares.
Immaturity
Ghosting is not 'cool'
The relationship coach highlights that some people have gotten into the habit of ghosting others, thinking it makes them appear cool and carefree. However, this mindset reflects immaturity. She emphasizes that it is wiser to act thoughtfully and recognize that ghosting is not a "cool act." The focus should be on being considerate, as ghosting is not a respectful way to handle relationships.
Commitment
Face your fear of commitment
Sharma explains that fear of commitment is another factor behind increasing cases of ghosting. "If you are not ready to commit to a relationship, then make clear it with the other person and mutually settle it with them," she advises. This approach respects both your feelings and the other person's, thereby avoiding the need to ghost and its potential negative impact.
Reasons
Why do people prefer ghosting over confronting?
The relationship coach explains that people nowadays often ghost others due to a lack of emotional maturity. Some people tend to avoid facing uncomfortable conversations. Depression contributes as another factor, as those with poor mental health and mood swings may inadvertently ghost others. Lastly, it often arises from the inability to handle "love emotions" that they had developed for the other person.