Dear Readers:
As you may know, I'm a doctoral student in clinical psychology who has spent the better part of the last four years learning to connect with my emotions, "open up," share my joys, desires and fears. If I don't "know thyself," how can I help another person with that same goal? Right?
I recently dated a girl who often said "you never tell me your feelings." I was dumbfounded by this statement. I was always telling her when I felt angry or sad, even shame. I thought this was important to a relationship. To be open and share one's feelings.
Even with this, she continued her mantra that I'm not expressing my feelings. Finally, it hit me like a ton of bricks. When she asked me to share my feelings, she was referring only to my feelings about her! The "Us Talk" in disguise.
So how important is it really for a man to share his feelings (if not specifically related to the relationship)?
-- George
Rebecca said ...It's vital. I think some women, not all, need reassurance now and then (more often than not) that you're on the same page as your guy. Just keep us in the loop on your life AND the "our" bit and your girlfriend will relax. And tell her she looks nice now and then.