Dependence is not love; it is an energetic drain. Reducing dependence does not mean leaving the person — it means withdrawing the conditional grip that makes you unstable. From a steadier inner state you can actually love more clearly. The distinguishing test is simple: does the bond energise or exhaust you? Exhaustion is not the cost of closeness; it is the sound of a pendulum feasting.
Practice · 4 min
Identify one relationship that exhausts you and pinpoint the conditional grip that drains it. Choose one small act today that loosens the grip without withdrawing care.
Evening reflection
Which relationship have you mistaken for love that is actually a dependence draining your energy?