Showtime.

YOU ARE THE CAPTAIN OF YOUR SHIP. YOU ARE THE DIRECTOR OF YOUR SHOW.

How it took decades for me to truly grasp this simple idea is beyond me, but I’m so glad I finally not only understand it, but also act in a way that supports it. Getting into a new relationship can be scary. No matter how many times you've had your heart broken, it still hurts just the same. And no matter how many lessons are learned, I'd still like to avoid pain. Falling in love when it took you so long to fall out of depression is terrifying.

REFRAME THE NARRATIVE.

Because yes, it's terrifying. But It's also EXCITING. This is a time you get to set the precedent, the standards, the tempo. What you won’t allow won’t happen. You essentially have the ability - no, the POWER to create the relationship you want and deserve. And that shit is fucking AMAZING.

So.

If something is important to you, bring it up.

If you don’t like something, talk about it.

If you want something, ask for it.

Be kind, be patient, and be empathetic. But don’t gaslight yourself into thinking you are needy, insecure, or crazy. Like my girl Fab said, “YOU RUN THE SHOW”. Let’s make it have a happy ending, whatever that may mean to you. Aaaaaand ACTION!