In this conversation, Mark Hicks delves into the complexities of love and relationships, emphasizing the importance of respect as a non-negotiable element in healthy connections. He discusses the challenges of navigating unhealthy relationships, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the foundational role of self-love in fostering healthy interactions. Mark encourages listeners to seek help when dealing with difficult relationships and highlights the potential for change when boundaries are established.

Takeaways

• Love is often discussed but not fully understood or practiced.
• Respect is a fundamental non-negotiable in relationships.
• Unhealthy relationships require constant effort to earn love and respect.
• Compassion is essential when dealing with those who struggle to love healthily.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for self-respect and healthy relationships.
• Self-love is foundational to establishing healthy boundaries.
• We are inherently worthy of love and respect, regardless of our flaws.
• Seeking help from professionals can aid in navigating complex relationships.
• People can change, but we cannot expect it to happen.
• Healthy relationships cannot thrive in the presence of toxic ones.

Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love.

Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954

Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

In this episode of the Love Story Podcast, host Ashley Green interviews Mark Hicks, author of 'Learning Love.' Mark shares his insights on the five components of love, drawing from his personal experiences and professional background in counseling. He emphasizes that love is a learned skillset and discusses the importance of self-love, boundaries, and the role of grief in building healthy relationships. The conversation explores how to navigate emotional connections and practical decisions in relationships, ultimately guiding listeners towards healthier interactions with themselves and others. In this conversation, Mark Hicks and Ashley Green explore the essential components of love, emphasizing kindness, patience, passion, and the importance of seeking help in navigating relationships and personal growth. They discuss the crisis of loneliness in modern society and the necessity of learning love as a skill rather than a mere instinct. The dialogue encourages listeners to embrace fun, live in the moment, and recognize the value of professional guidance in achieving emotional health and fulfilling relationships.

Takeaways

• Love can be learned and practiced as a skillset.
• Healthy relationships require understanding and practicing the five components of love.
• Grief is a necessary process for healing and moving forward in relationships.
• Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.
• Self-love is foundational to loving others effectively.
• Emotional connections are important but must be balanced with practicality.
• Encouragement and positive self-talk can help break negative thought patterns.
• Relationships may need to end if they become abusive or unhealthy.
• Understanding the components of love can help navigate relationship challenges.
• It's important to accept oneself to foster better relationships with others. Be patient and kind to yourself and others.
• Passion and fun are essential for a fulfilling life.
• Life is serious, but we must prioritize enjoyment.
• Labels can hinder personal growth and self-acceptance.

Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love.

Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954

Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/

In this conversation, Mark Hicks explores the concept of being triggered and how it affects our relationships. He emphasizes that while being triggered is a natural human instinct, how we respond to those triggers is our responsibility. Hicks provides strategies for managing emotional responses, including taking time to breathe, using sensory techniques, and making wise decisions to maintain healthy relationships. He highlights the importance of understanding our triggers and responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively.

Takeaways

• Being triggered is a natural human instinct.
• How we respond to triggers is our responsibility.
• We need a strategy to handle our emotional responses.
• Triggers can stem from past trauma and emotional harm.
• The brain reacts similarly to physical and emotional attacks.
• Immediate reactions are only necessary in extreme situations.
• Taking time to respond can prevent relationship damage.
• Deep breathing can help calm heightened senses.
• The 5-4-3-2-1 method can ground us during overwhelming moments.
• Healthy relationships require thoughtful communication and responses.

Dr. Mark A. Hicks, author of the book 'Learning Love,' provides tangible, real-life insights on how to build healthy, happy, thriving relationships, even if you come from a dysfunctional family background, have been through a divorce, or struggled with relationships in the past. Love isn't about fate. Love is a skill set, and this is the place to learn that skill set as we spend some time learning love.

Order "Learning Love: Building a Life that Matters and Healthy Relationships that Last": https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-love-mark-a-hicks/1146412363?ean=9781636985954

Visit Dr. Mark A. Hicks online: https://www.markahicks.com/