Sometimes, the buddy system can lead us to some strange places. I just read a June story in The Atlantic about Couvade Syndrome. In this syndrome, men experience pregnancy symptoms along with their partners. It’s also known as “pregnant dad syndrome.” I found myself thinking about the larger question of how we influence and learn from one another.
But first, I remember a real-life case. An adorable young couple at my health club always worked out together. I’d see them on treadmills side-by-side, walking on the running track side-by-side, or lifting weights side-by-side. They were chatting, sharing, and the epitome of a couple melded into happy oneness! I also noticed as the young lady’s body changed with pregnancy, so did her partner’s body.
The above scenario seems extreme, but have you ever noticed how a friend changes with a new relationship? I watched a petite friend try to keep up with a new boyfriend who could never pass up a fast-food joint. As they dated and fell in love, her weight climbed. He managed to maintain his bulky frame, but she found her weight gain quite challenging.
Have your friends, family, and co-workers influenced your personal choices? Think about how much and when you eat. Let’s look now beyond food and weight. Consider your smoking habit, drinking, and even how you treat others. What about how you dress and use of make-up? Let’s consider attitudes regarding money, school, and work. Who influenced you?
Social beings rub off on one another. Our many connections are fraught with opportunities. So, are you a good influence on others? And who do you credit for some of your worst impulses?
A friend reminded me of a timely quote from Oprah Winfrey: “You are responsible for your life. You can’t keep blaming somebody else for your dysfunction. Life is really about moving on.” I agree, but it’s critical to ponder the roots and causes of influences in our lives. The process is challenging, fascinating, and helps us grow.
Live&Work 4healthyu 