4 ms·

Judging by the downvotes, it looks like your comment is controversial. I actually agree with you. In a relationship we trade constantly, something for somethin

Judging by the downvotes, it looks like your comment is controversial. I actually agree with you. In a relationship we trade constantly, something for something else: love for love, company for company, or any combination. They are like constant bi-directional streams. As long as both parties are happy with what they receive and give, they will maintain the relationship; when that's not the case, well, that's when we get divorces, friendships destroyed, etc. Yes, blood relationships are somewhat special, but if for instance you permanently severe the relationship with your kids, even though you can still claim they are your kids, I don't think is any different than not having kids at all. However, if you factor in the fact that humans are emotional and highly unpredictable by nature, you'll quickly realize that constantly applying strategies from the business world to your personal relationships will quickly blow up in your face. Flexibility and balance in how you approach things are key.

jes 10y ago
I appreciate the comment. If downvotes facilitate thoughtful discussion and inquiry, I'm cool with them. I don't know if I see much of a difference between strategies that work in business, as against strategies that lead to successful, long-term relationships. If you're in a job where your manager ignores you, rebuffs your efforts for honesty in your communications, and generally treats you poorly, should you maintain that relationship, or break it off? Is it any different outside of work? If you have a partner who cheats on you, or is sarcastic all the time, or is indifferent to you, I'd say that's another relationship that should be broken off, if it's clear that it cannot be saved. I agree with flexibility and balance. I also believe in gently confronting people who treat others poorly, trying to correct the situation if possible, and if it cannot, then disengaging. At 56 years of age, I've come to realize that I do not have infinite time to waste on less-than-strong relationships. Thanks again for an interesting comment.
- plainOldText 10y ago
  I concur with your line of reasoning in your examples. I was not arguing against applying such strategies, I was merely suggesting we shouldn't always use them – to make room for flexibility – as I was trying to avoid claiming complete equivalence between the business and personal sides.
  - jes 10y ago
    Ah, I now get your point. Thank you for clarifying.

jes 10y ago

I appreciate the comment. If downvotes facilitate thoughtful discussion and inquiry, I'm cool with them. I don't know if I see much of a difference between strategies that work in business, as against strategies that lead to successful, long-term relationships. If you're in a job where your manager ignores you, rebuffs your efforts for honesty in your communications, and generally treats you poorly, should you maintain that relationship, or break it off? Is it any different outside of work? If you have a partner who cheats on you, or is sarcastic all the time, or is indifferent to you, I'd say that's another relationship that should be broken off, if it's clear that it cannot be saved. I agree with flexibility and balance. I also believe in gently confronting people who treat others poorly, trying to correct the situation if possible, and if it cannot, then disengaging. At 56 years of age, I've come to realize that I do not have infinite time to waste on less-than-strong relationships. Thanks again for an interesting comment.

plainOldText 10y ago
I concur with your line of reasoning in your examples. I was not arguing against applying such strategies, I was merely suggesting we shouldn't always use them – to make room for flexibility – as I was trying to avoid claiming complete equivalence between the business and personal sides.
- jes 10y ago
  Ah, I now get your point. Thank you for clarifying.