“A hypothetical conversation that you compulsively play out in your head."

I’ve been doing this all week. I have a difficult conversation coming up tomorrow and I’ve been workshopping the right words in my head. Normally, I’m quite good at talking my way out of difficult situations - too good if my dating history is any indication. However, this time it feels different.

The possible outcomes of this conversation are thankfully limited, with all of them leading to a better life … eventually. Maybe, it’s just the pain that comes with self-growth that I’m avoiding. The fear of finding out that a big piece of your life turned out to be just a comforting lie that you now have to let go. It’s a small mercy that, regardless of the outcome, I’ll be able to express a more authentic version of myself.

I’m set on what I want, and I don’t want to negotiate. However, I do have to come to terms with the possibility that the other person might not agree, and I will have to respect their decision.

Growth does not come without some sacrifice, I suppose.