Hey everyone! Welcome to today’s episode of the Wright Conversations Podcast! For today’s episode, I’ll be talking about the plague of Comparisonitis and understanding the phases of typical relationships. I’ll also get into our brain chemistry and how it changes throughout the phases, navigating each phase, and finding solace and learning from relationships that end.   Let’s delve in!   In this Episode You’ll Learn: [02:26] Why we compare ourselves to others. [08:39] The typical relationship escalator. [09:50] The honeymoon phase. [11:20] The brain chemistry during the honeymoon phase. [14:49] The “back to reality” phase. [19:22] The decision-making phase. [22:22] No more Comparisonitis. [22:58] The settling down phase. [24:22] Brain chemistry in the settling down phase. [26:22] Feeling the ebb and flow of the sexual relationship. [26:52] There is more to a relationship than these stages.   Quotes: “When we understand the natural phases of a typical romantic/sexual relationship, we will compare less.” [02:57] “The honeymoon phase is super common and normal. Soak it up.” [10:43] “Try not to make any big decisions during the honeymoon phase.” [10:54] “During the ‘back to reality’ phase is often when a lot of these ‘issues’ tend to start popping up.” [15:52] “This [back to reality] stage really sets the foundation in so many ways for the rest of your relationship.” [17:09] “Please believe people when they show you who they are.” [17:28] “It is more of a success to leave a relationship that is not for you than to stay in one that you don’t want to be in.” [17:41] “Often, in this [decision-making] phase, you are figuring out if your lifestyles in the big picture are compatible.” [20:55] “I truly hope that you do not settle for being happy enough.” [21:30] “If something is not serving you, if it’s harming you, you don’t have to be in it.” [22:13] “This [settling down] phase feels very privileged.” [23:25] “The reality of long-term sexual/romantic relationships that have a sexual component is that the sexual relationship is going to ebb and flow.” [25:18] “When you have an empty cup, it is so hard to pour out.” [26:47]   Connect with Rachel Wright Website:            https://rachelwrightnyc.com Instagram:          @thewright_rachel Twitter:              @thewrightrachel   WIN A FREE INTIMACY AFTER DARK DECK!   Get 30% OFF the NEW After Dark Deck! Use Promo Code: Rachel   Get your Zumio Discount!   Call to Action Please if you love this episode, and know someone else who is a passionate soul on a mission just like you share it with your friends and others. To help this podcast grow please leave an iTunes review and don’t forget to subscribe.