What Endings Means As Used Here


Sometime after the old story begins to loosen, whether it’s about retiring, family changes, or physical changes, . . . things that once worked start to fail quietly.

Not all at once.

Not catastrophically.

Just enough to be noticed.

Then ignored.

Then noticed again.

Roles that had carried weight for decades grow lighter, then awkward, then hollow.

Certainties thin.

Effort produces less return.

The familiar moves stop landing the way they used to.

At first, this feels like a problem to solve.

Most of us were trained that way.

If something stops working, we adjust.

If a role loses power, we reinforce it.

If meaning fades, we double down on purpose.

But, this time, doubling down does not help.

What is happening does not respond to improvement.

It does not want optimization.

It does not want encouragement.
It wants something to end.

That realization comes slowly, and then all at once.

Looking back, it becomes clear there were several such endings . . . more than a few.

Enough changes in enough areas of life to change the ground we thought was solid.

Each one arrives disguised as inconvenience or failure or fatigue.

Each one asks to be managed . . . and each one resists management.

A capacity relied on for years slips away.

A way of being respected no longer applies.

A sense of usefulness evaporates without explanation.

These moments aren’t clearly losses at the time . . . . so they get treated as problems . . . and that makes things worse.

Only in hindsight does it become clear that something more fundamental has been happening.

Not change in the ordinary sense . . . not transition . . . not reinvention.

It is something closer to death . . . not physical death . . .

Not emotional collapse.

Identity death . . . the passing away of things that we always took for granted . . . that we thought were us.

Leaving us with an obvious, but very difficult question: If these things that we thought defined us aren’t true anymore, then who the heck are we now?
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Hey gents, let’s talk about communication—a skill that can feel as tricky as baiting a hook on a windy day, but is essential for not blowing up relationships.

Communication isn’t a panacea. Like a pipe, it can carry whatever you put into it.

It’s all too easy to fall into bad talking and listening habits. Here’s a list of the top ways guys are most likely to screw it up.

Do any apply to you?

1. Getting Stuck in Bad Talking & Listening Habits

Criticism, defensiveness, contempt, stonewalling—sound familiar? These behaviors can slowly chip away at your relationship satisfaction. Stuart’s approach teaches couples to interrupt these toxic cycles by promoting positive interaction. Start small: avoid blaming, focus on “I” statements, and genuinely listen to your partner’s point of view.

2. Forgetting the “Golden Rule”

Want a simple way to strengthen your relationship? Show appreciation! Sometimes, we get caught up in the daily grind and forget to say those small but impactful words: “Thank you,” or “I admire you.” Behavioral therapy emphasizes celebrating the positives, and a little effort here can go a long way.

3. Toxic Arguing Styles

Disagreements can quickly escalate if not managed well. Interrupting, blaming, or dismissing your partner’s feelings? These are classic mistakes. Instead, practice active listening, communicate your concerns calmly, and aim for solutions both parties can agree on—teamwork makes the dream work!

4. Not Working Together

Relationships thrive when partners tackle challenges together. If you’re used to handling problems solo, this could be a stumbling block. Approach issues with a shared mindset—break them into manageable parts, strategize together, and celebrate progress.

5. Not Saying What You Feel As Well As What You Really Want

Men sometimes keep feelings bottled up, but that only creates distance. Sharing your thoughts and emotions doesn’t make you weak—it makes you a stronger communicator. Schedule dedicated time for honest conversations and watch misunderstandings turn into deeper connections.

6. Jumping to Conclusions

Ever find yourself thinking, “That’s not what I meant!”? Misinterpretations often happen when tone or body language doesn’t align with words. A quick fix? Ask for clarification before reacting—“What did you mean by that?” can diffuse tension fast.

7. Side-stepping Difficult Conversations

Sensitive topics can feel like land mines, but avoiding them doesn’t make them disappear. Be proactive—approach these conversations with empathy and a willingness to find solutions. It’s not about winning; it’s about understanding each other better.

Take Action Today

Guys, relationships are built on good communication. Make a conscious effort to steer clear of these mistakes, and you’ll see the difference—not just in your partner’s responses but in how you feel about yourself.

Ready to sharpen your communication skills? Choose one tip to try today and watch your relationship flourish. Let’s keep this conversation going—what challenges are you facing, and what’s worked for you? Drop your thoughts below!

What We Mean by Endings
Every man reaches a point where the old story no longer fits. Careers close. Roles shift. Friendships thin out. The things that once defined us don’t hold the same weight. These endings aren’t failures — they’re signals that something new is asking for space.What We Mean by Endings
Every man reaches a point where the old story no longer fits. Careers close. Roles shift. Friendships thin out. The things that once defined us don’t hold the same weight. These endings aren’t failures — they’re signals that something new is asking for space.

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