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Navigating the Complex Psychology of Unrequited Love: Understanding Your Desires and Coping Strategies

Updated: Dec 30, 2023

Have you ever found yourself wanting something or someone that you can't have? I've heard it's a common experience it's causing a great deal of frustration and anxiety. One particular situation that has left me with these feelings is I've developed feelings for someone who is unavailable and unattainable. It's normal to wonder why I want him so badly, or is my desire simply fueled by the belief that he is out of reach? Do I want him because I think I can't have him or is this to get my mind off of Craig and my life before the brain aneurysm? I've been told that, often, people that are recovering from brain damage fall into drugs, alcohol and dating the wrong way. I'm not sure that a brain aneurysm should be blamed for that but doesn't mean I shouldn't check this out. This is through my counselers introspective lens.



Recognizing the pattern of wanting something I can't have.


Recognizing the pattern of wanting something I can't have is the first step in understanding my desires. It's important to take a step back and examine my feelings to determine if I truly want the person or if the desire is simply a result of him being unattainable.


It's not uncommon for individuals to want what they can't have, whether it's a material possession or the attention of a particular person. This desire may be driven by my fear of missing out or the need for validation. When I believe I can't have something, it may become even more appealing to me.


However, it's important to recognize that this type of desire is temporary and may fade once the novelty wears off. It's also important to consider why the person is unavailable and if pursuing him is worth the potential emotional toll.


Ultimately, recognizing the pattern of wanting something I can't have can help me determine if my desires are genuine or simply a result of the fear of missing out. Through self-reflection and introspection, I can make more informed decisions about my desires and move forward with clarity and confidence.



Evaluating my motives for wanting what I can't have


It's not always easy to determine why I want something I can't have, but evaluating my motives can help me gain a better understanding of myself and my desires.


Here are some questions to ask yourself when trying to evaluate your motives:


1. What draws me to this person or thing? Is it their personality, their appearance, or something else?


2. Am I simply wanting what I can't have, or do I genuinely believe this is the best option for me?


3. How would obtaining this person or thing benefit me in the long run?


4. What are the potential consequences of pursuing something I can't have?


5. Am I willing to take the risk to pursue this, even if it doesn't work out?


Answering these questions honestly can help me gain clarity on my motives and determine if pursuing what I can't have is worth it. It's important to remember that sometimes what I want may not be what's best for me, and it's okay to let go of certain desires. Trusting my instincts and making decisions with a clear mind can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.



The dangers of fixating on unattainable desires


When I fixate on something I can't have, it can lead to a number of negative consequences. Here are some dangers to consider:


1. Obsessive Behavior – Dwelling on the desire for something unattainable can lead to obsessive thoughts and behaviors. This can take away from the enjoyment of other parts of life and even lead to addiction or compulsive behavior.


2. Unrealistic Expectations – Continuously longing for something unattainable sets unrealistic expectations that can never be met. This can lead to disappointment, frustration, and even depression.


3. Ignoring Opportunities – Focusing solely on the unattainable can cause me to miss out on other opportunities. I may become so consumed with what I can't have that I don't see the potential for happiness and fulfillment in other areas of my life.


4. Damaged Relationships – My fixation on an unattainable desire can cause me to neglect my relationships with family and friends. It can also lead to conflicts and misunderstandings when my obsession interferes with my behavior and interactions with others.


It's essential to recognize when I am fixating on something unattainable and take steps to move past it. This may involve seeking support from loved ones, practicing mindfulness techniques, or seeking professional counseling. By letting go of unattainable desires, I can open myself up to new, fulfilling possibilities and live a happier, more content life.



Strategies for detaching from unattainable desires


1. Acknowledge and Accept – Recognize that the desire is unattainable and accept it as a fact. This is the first step towards letting go of the fixation.


2. Focus on the Present – Practice mindfulness techniques to remain focused on the present moment. This helps to avoid too much focus on the unattainable desire.


3. Redirect Your Thoughts – Whenever thoughts about the unattainable desire arise, redirect those thoughts to more positive aspects of life. Think about things that bring happiness and fulfillment.


4. Find a Distraction – Engage in activities that provide a positive distraction from the unattainable desire. This will help to shift focus and create new opportunities for happiness.


5. Seek Support – Find a trusted friend or loved one to confide in and seek support from. This will provide an outlet for emotions and may help to gain perspective and a fresh outlook on the situation.


Detaching from unattainable desires can be difficult, but it is possible. By utilizing these strategies, it is easier to let go and focus on the positives that life has to offer. It is important to remember that letting go of something that can't be had is not giving up, but a step towards gaining peace, happiness, and contentment.



Building self-awareness to avoid repeating the pattern


When I find myself attracted to someone who is unattainable, it's important to take a step back and examine why I feel this way. Sometimes, I may be repeating a pattern that developed during childhood or in past relationships. Building self-awareness can help me identify these patterns and make conscious choices about my actions and emotions.


1. Examine my past – Take a look at my past relationships and the people I have been attracted to. Look for patterns or similarities in my desires and behaviors.


2. Reflect on my emotions – Pay attention to how I feel when I think about the unattainable person. Am I seeking validation or attention? Are there feelings of insecurity or inadequacy?


3. Seek feedback – Ask friends or a therapist for feedback on my behavior and patterns. They may be able to offer insight and support for building self-awareness.


4. Practice mindfulness – Practice being present in the moment and paying attention to my thoughts and emotions. This can help me identify patterns and triggers.


5. Set realistic expectations – Recognize that no one is perfect and that attraction does not always lead to a successful relationship. Set realistic expectations for myself and others.

Building self-awareness takes time and effort, but it can help avoid repeating negative patterns in my relationships. By understanding my emotions and desires, I can make better choices and find healthier, more fulfilling connections with others.



Embracing fulfillment and letting go of elusive desires


In conclusion, the feeling of wanting something I can't have can be both frustrating and alluring. However, it's important to understand that my desires and attractions don't always lead to fulfillment. Sometimes, I may be repeating negative patterns from my past or seeking validation and attention rather than genuine connection. Building self-awareness and setting realistic expectations can help me avoid repeating these patterns and find healthier, more fulfilling relationships. So embrace fulfillment and let go of elusive desires that may only lead to disappointment.


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