Lindaland
  Sweet Peas In The Rain
  How to stop being shallow? (Page 2)

Post New Topic  Post A Reply
profile | register | preferences | faq

UBBFriend: Email This Page to Someone!
This topic is 4 pages long:   1  2  3  4 
next newest topic | next oldest topic
Author Topic:   How to stop being shallow?
Yin
Knowflake

Posts: 3401
From:
Registered: Apr 2009

posted August 11, 2014 02:43 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Yin     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I think we are all born different and also brought up differently.

I, for example, don't look at the outside very much. Baldness, shortness, potbellies, being out of shape, scoliosis hunches, crooked teeth, glasses, moles, hairy backs - it just never phased me. I see those things, but they don't register as negative characteristics.

If I love that person, those things become assets.

The most important thing is that I've always been that way. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate beauty wherever I see it but a pretty face/physique only goes so far.

That's why it's hard for me to really get a crush on a celebrity. I can't lust after a body if I don't know the person.

Another important point: I expect men to love me just the way I am. There is only so much self-loathing one can do. You get to a certain age and you understand that there is nothing that can stop you from being happy with yourself. Nothing. Just you and your thoughts.

IP: Logged

StarlightSmileSupreme
Knowflake

Posts: 9002
From: neptune
Registered: Nov 2012

posted August 11, 2014 02:50 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for StarlightSmileSupreme     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Doux Rêve:
I find myself shallow, and would like to change that (if it's even possible).

What I mean by shallow is that I pay a lot of attention to looks in general - mine and other people's.

Often I'm attracted to someone mentally or emotionally but not physically, and it's really frustrating. I wish I could just go past the appearance aspect because it'd make life easier.

I'm extremely self-conscious; and what you could call "picky." I don't choose to be that way but it's automatic, and it's debilitating.

I don't want to be controlled by something as fleeting and ephemeral as looks. I could use some tolerance when it comes to looks - mine and other people's.
It doesn't change a thing for me in friendship but it definitely does in closer interactions.

Any insight?



You should just be who you are and most comfortable being.

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 11, 2014 02:55 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
That sounds pretty awesome, Yin.

Wish I could be that way.

quote:
Originally posted by StarlightSmileSupreme:
You should just be who you are and most comfortable being.

Nah, that's not how it works for me, haha.
I am too broken and messed up to remain the same. I need to fix myself, asap. It's getting out of hand. And of course, it goes much deeper than the topic of this thread. This is like, the tip of the iceberg.

Anywho, I know what I have to do.
Just need that willpower to actually go out there and do it.

IP: Logged

Yin
Knowflake

Posts: 3401
From:
Registered: Apr 2009

posted August 11, 2014 02:57 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Yin     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I don't know if this applies to your situation Doux, but try to surround yourself with positive, accepting, happy people. It's extremely important to have a supportive environment. Again, that's something that's totally in your control. You know how when people smile at you and you smile back involuntarily? It lifts your spirit, even if it's just an unconscious body reaction. We can reprogram ourselves (our thinking) to an extent, we just have to work at it.

I'm rooting for you.

IP: Logged

Yin
Knowflake

Posts: 3401
From:
Registered: Apr 2009

posted August 11, 2014 03:08 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Yin     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Doux Rêve:
That sounds pretty awesome, Yin.

Wish I could be that way.


Like I said, it's something I'm born with. Apparently Venus sq Saturn does this.

I'm more in my head. My body is not that important.

BUT

Other people may feel differently. I'm not saying that I'm more evolved because I feel and do what I do.

Everybody follows their own path.

I dated people who were a lot more into appearance and didn't understand my accepting of physical flaws and didn't accept mine either! It didn't work out in the end. It's important to mix with people who share your views.

I don't know what the right answer is. You just have to love yourself.

IP: Logged

StarlightSmileSupreme
Knowflake

Posts: 9002
From: neptune
Registered: Nov 2012

posted August 11, 2014 03:37 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for StarlightSmileSupreme     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Doux Rêve:

Nah, that's not how it works for me, haha.
I am too broken and messed up to remain the same. I need to fix myself, asap. It's getting out of hand. And of course, it goes much deeper than the topic of this thread. This is like, the tip of the iceberg.

Anywho, I know what I have to do.
Just need that willpower to actually go out there and do it.


I understand what you are saying however be fair to yourself and do not accept something because of guilt or someone saying, "Doux, you have to become someone else" because I know that is almost impossible. If someone has something about them you cannot stand it won't work even if you feel guilty.
That's not saying you cannot be friends with them but close relationships as in significant others? You have to be with someone you are attracted to physically and mentally. Passive aggression can seep in if you are subconsciously repelled. I see nothing wrong with a degree of shallowness because it's just human nature so long as it doesn't go too far and becomes a reason to oppress a group of people.

IP: Logged

Dancing Maenad
Moderator

Posts: 1452
From: The Harvest
Registered: Mar 2014

posted August 11, 2014 04:32 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Dancing Maenad     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I actually agree with SSS. I've pondered on this in my Kissing the frog thread, because I am pretty critical myself, and I've realized.. screw that, I cannot fake chemistry! It's either there, or it's not. Dating is not a charity case, period. I like what I like, and dislike what I dislike and that's it. That being said, I have kissed some frogs in the past (short, skinny, fat, bald etc) (so I get what Yin is saying.. sort of.. even though I'm mostly still *huh?*) and they did not turn into any prince anyways. So that was a pretty bad investment at the end of the day! And shoot, I really wanted to be a princess! *pouts*

I will say this, though - things DO change once you stop being so critical with yourself. It took me 3 years of therapy but I've managed to get the self love part right, I think. Maybe meditation works for some folks, I had to learn to change my thinking and see the world - and my past experiences - differently. And slowly, things changed. I don't know how critical I would be right now because I am absolutely disinterested in dating, flirting, sex, relationships or anything of the kind right now. I couldn't care less about any princes at this moment. I've anointed myself princess and so the job is done now, boys go back to your mamma. But I lean towards saying I would still reject a good bunch of people, on looks alone, except it wouldn't make me feel guilty or frustrated anymore. Chemistry is not something you can control.

------------------
~the raving one dancing in the nude~

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 11, 2014 04:35 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Yin, thank you so much. I appreciate the support.

SSS, thank you for that. Funny thing, it kind of applies to my situation right now and I wonder where I stand. Tricky stuff.

Someone I know keeps telling me things that are in direct opposition to what I think/feel re: looks (that they are not important). And it's a very interesting experience, albeit a confusing one. I am now wondering where "my truth" lies, and just how important (or not) appearance truly is. Wow this is so bizarre. I don't think many people ever go through such a thing... Feels like my entire belief system is being challenged and poked. Perhaps I need to change my vision of things in a radical way. Or I'll just have my current opinion confirmed. Can't tell where this is gonna lead me yet.

So many interconnections.


eta. Mae, interesting, thank you.
I wonder if I'll come to the same conclusion. I can see what you mean. At the same time, I wonder if I can challenge that... "belief." Right now it seems nearly impossible but some things are making me wonder.

IP: Logged

Dancing Maenad
Moderator

Posts: 1452
From: The Harvest
Registered: Mar 2014

posted August 11, 2014 04:50 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Dancing Maenad     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
YES, make your own beliefs! Experiment, that is the only way to learn about yourself. Start with the slate clean, forget everything everyone has ever told you you should. There is no should.

------------------
~the raving one dancing in the nude~

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 11, 2014 06:59 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
What a Sag thing to say.

IP: Logged

IV XXIV
Knowflake

Posts: 390
From:
Registered: Mar 2014

posted August 11, 2014 07:10 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for IV XXIV     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
To be honest, I don't think you're shallow (based on what you've written, I obviously don't know you personally). I just don't believe people when they say that they "don't look at someone's physical". It's one thing to be attracted to someone mentally or to be attracted to their personality, because it happens every now and then. Sometimes, people have great personalities, you'll have a great mental connection, but the physical chemistry is just nonexistent. And that is okay. I don't think it's shallow to not follow up or pursue someone because of that. That's what friendships are for, amongst other obvious things.

When people say that they'll date/marry without a care in the world for what you look like physically, then that's when SoujiroSeta comes into play with the "I love my spouse, and they're everything to me, but I'm not attracted to them anymore and I practically have sex with him/her because I feel bad. I can't continue this sexless/lack of attraction marriage. What should I do?"

Beauty doesn't last forever, and it truthfully won't sustain a relationship, but lack of being attracted to your partner won't help either. There are cases where I've had feelings for someone and because I have, they've become MORE attractive to me, but it still didn't last that long because the initial attraction was never there. That strips the passion and lust that my Venus in Aries needs to thrive.

If it honestly bothers you and you still feel like you're shallow, then I would say to pursue those who genuinely intrigue you but don't physically attract you. And it doesn't have to be a romantic pursuit, it could be platonic. Maybe you'll get on with these people in ways you never have before. It could open up your eyes and build a routine, but you'll never know until you try.

I, however, still agree that you aren't shallow.. You're simply human. It's hardwired neurologically in our brains to seek out physical beauty in human beings for potential mates. Within the first >10 seconds, our brains have already sized up the person in question. So really, you could blame biology before you blame yourself. Lol

IP: Logged

Odette
Moderator

Posts: 4512
From:
Registered: May 2012

posted August 11, 2014 10:24 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Odette     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Ummm... I'm of the - apparently.. highly unconventional - opinion that there is a mind/body/soul connection - and that our physical body is *always* a manifestation (or reflection) of who we are on other levels and where we are at on our spiritual journey.

I see a person's soul in their facial expression, their eyes - their vibe, their body language. If I'm not attracted to their soul then I can't be attracted to the rest of them. This is all interconnected in my mind.
And vice versa, if I *am* attracted to their soul.. their personality (who they are deep down) - it's impossible for me not to like them on a physical level. I've never had this happen. But you know I'm demisexual so I think I'm weird in this department.

If I was in a (hypothetical) situation where I really thought I fell in love.. and at the same time I wasn't physically attracted - It would make me feel skeptical as to how honest and real that person has been with me.
If their appearance and body language doesn't seem in synch with their soul - something is off. Maybe they are hiding aspects you're unaware of.

In my opinion.. Doux... This isn't about being "perfect" looks wise.. or looking like a model. It's about the guy having a physical appearance that *matches* yours.. a guy who feels right on all levels.
Because if someone truly matches you deep down, and there is real/genuine chemistry between you - that chemistry would likewise be reflected on the physical level.

I don't know whether you like the concept of soulmates or twin flames.. but often people who are deeply in love have things in common appearance wise. There is just something 'about' them as a couple.. They have a -unity- that is not just spiritual, but also physical. They look like an item, rather than two separate/disparate individuals.

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 12, 2014 05:38 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, ladies.

I'm in the process of demystifying "beauty"! Haha. It's not easy, especially for a Libra Venus like myself. I want to let go of superficiality though. Or at least try.

IP: Logged

athenegoddess
Knowflake

Posts: 2525
From:
Registered: Aug 2011

posted August 12, 2014 06:55 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for athenegoddess     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Odette:
Ummm... I'm of the - apparently.. highly unconventional - opinion that there is a mind/body/soul connection - and that our physical body is *always* a manifestation (or reflection) of who we are on other levels and where we are at on our spiritual journey.

I see a person's soul in their facial expression, their eyes - their vibe, their body language. If I'm not attracted to their soul then I can't be attracted to the rest of them. This is all interconnected in my mind.
And vice versa, if I *am* attracted to their soul.. their personality (who they are deep down) - it's impossible for me not to like them on a physical level. I've never had this happen. But you know I'm demisexual so I think I'm weird in this department.

If I was in a (hypothetical) situation where I really thought I fell in love.. and at the same time I wasn't physically attracted - It would make me feel skeptical as to how honest and real that person has been with me.
If their appearance and body language doesn't seem in synch with their soul - something is off. Maybe they are hiding aspects you're unaware of.

In my opinion.. Doux... This isn't about being "perfect" looks wise.. or looking like a model. It's about the guy having a physical appearance that *matches* yours.. a guy who feels right on all levels.
Because if someone truly matches you deep down, and there is real/genuine chemistry between you - that chemistry would likewise be reflected on the physical level.

I don't know whether you like the concept of soulmates or twin flames.. but often people who are deeply in love have things in common appearance wise. There is just something 'about' them as a couple.. They have a -unity- that is not just spiritual, but also physical. They look like an item, rather than two separate/disparate individuals.


I totally agree with that.

IP: Logged

rajji
Knowflake

Posts: 1809
From:
Registered: Jan 2011

posted August 12, 2014 11:39 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for rajji     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Athena GoDDeSS, preach your violet flame energising methods in Health and Healing.

IP: Logged

athenegoddess
Knowflake

Posts: 2525
From:
Registered: Aug 2011

posted August 13, 2014 12:08 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for athenegoddess     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by rajji:
Athena GoDDeSS, preach your violet flame energising methods in Health and Healing.

How do you know I use the violet flame?

Did you mean that in a not so nice way? lol.

IP: Logged

Padre35
Knowflake

Posts: 3799
From: Asheville, NC, US
Registered: Jul 2012

posted August 13, 2014 12:15 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Padre35     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Doux Rêve:
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, ladies.

I'm in the process of demystifying "beauty"! Haha. It's not easy, especially for a Libra Venus like myself. I want to let go of superficiality though. Or at least try.


The thing with that is it may be the mind is wired to see a objective "beauty" not a subjective one.

And I KNOW that is not exactly mainstream, it is well known in the art world and fashion etc.

This is unpleasant to say, however, there is a veil of "we are all equal!" and it is true when it comes to fundamental rights. When it comes to beauty however, things speak for themselves.

Sounds a bit harsh, to me it seems the West is making a habit of denying any sort of Aesthetic, that is to say we are being told there is no objective beauty in favor of the classic child painting with a turd on the wall being called "art" and "beautiful"

IP: Logged

Vajra
Knowflake

Posts: 115
From:
Registered: Dec 2012

posted August 13, 2014 04:09 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Vajra     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Odette:

In my opinion.. Doux... This isn't about being "perfect" looks wise.. or looking like a model. It's about the guy having a physical appearance that *matches* yours.. a guy who feels right on all levels.
Because if someone truly matches you deep down, and there is real/genuine chemistry between you - that chemistry would likewise be reflected on the physical level.

Odette, I feel exactly the same way. One's "animal instinct" aka chemistry can be a powerful indicator of finding the one, IMHO. In my case it has invariably been either present right from the start, or not at all. I would never go against this instinct.

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 13, 2014 07:06 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I think there are several things going on in this thread that cannot be lumped together.

I've tried replying in one shot but it's become impossible.

Here's the thing. Beauty and attraction are two different things. You can find someone beautiful but not be attracted to them. Conversely, you can be attracted to someone without necessarily finding them beautiful in a standard sense. I guess that's very obvious and goes without saying (but I'm still mentioning it because I need to make that distinction to make things clear).

But, I guess what I was truly wondering about - and I didn't formulate it correctly at all - was... Is it possible to become attracted to someone that you don't find initially attractive, over time, based on their qualities? I suppose that's not impossible and varies from person to person.

Wouldn't it be so much easier to be attracted to someone's mind first, and their overall personality, and then become attracted physically? That would avoid unnecessary drama and heartache. But it seems to be working the other way around: you become physically attracted first, then attempt to get along and find common ground and very often it fails because the two people are incompatible or get in conflict, and so on.

So I would like to know if it's possible to go about things the other way around. Not feeling attracted physically at first, then getting to know the person (as in, being friends) and later on start feeling attracted to them physically. I am sure it's possible, but not sure it's possible for me personally.
Can it be learned? Or is it something that's unlikely to happen for some people? The 'instinct' thing that so many of you talk about, well, what if it can be reversed? You know, just thinking out loud. I bet there are so many variables to questions like these that it's basically pointless to even think about them. Probably a case by case thing. Depends on the person, circumstances, etc.

I guess that kind of thing can work for people with Aqua/11H stuff. Being friends first. *shrug*

IP: Logged

Ami Anne
Moderator

Posts: 56708
From: Pluto/house next to NickiG
Registered: Sep 2010

posted August 13, 2014 07:22 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Ami Anne     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
You have Mars in Scorpio, Doux. You feel out things and attraction is very important to you.Your basic nature is this kind of a feeling posture to life. What is your Venus?

------------------
Want To Ask Any Question About Bible Prophecy? Go For it. It is Free, of course.


http://www.mychristianpsychic.com/

IP: Logged

Yin
Knowflake

Posts: 3401
From:
Registered: Apr 2009

posted August 13, 2014 07:59 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Yin     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Attraction can't be "learned" but it is possible for it to disappear and appear when you least expect it. Attraction evolves.

Worst thing to do to relationships is to force them where they won't go naturally.

IP: Logged

Ami Anne
Moderator

Posts: 56708
From: Pluto/house next to NickiG
Registered: Sep 2010

posted August 13, 2014 09:34 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Ami Anne     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Doux

Something came into my mind for you and it is not going away, so I will share it. You need to find your PASSION. I know you mentioned several to me when we talked like photography, make up artist etc but when you find that passion, go for it, the best way you can.

I think you will find a way that it will not be beyond you to pursue.

If you want to talk about your passion(s) here, that is fine and we can discuss it.

If not, just think about it because I felt like I was supposed to tell you this, today.

------------------
Want To Ask Any Question About Bible Prophecy? Go For it. It is Free, of course.


http://www.mychristianpsychic.com/

IP: Logged

Ami Anne
Moderator

Posts: 56708
From: Pluto/house next to NickiG
Registered: Sep 2010

posted August 13, 2014 09:57 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Ami Anne     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I know. It is hard for you to put yourself out there. It is painful xx

You need Pholus conj Chiron where you just throw yourself out there

------------------
Want To Ask Any Question About Bible Prophecy? Go For it. It is Free, of course.


http://www.mychristianpsychic.com/

IP: Logged

I'm so cappy
Knowflake

Posts: 8452
From: Saturn (summer house on Chiron)
Registered: Nov 2012

posted August 13, 2014 10:11 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for I'm so cappy     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
So I would like to know if it's possible to go about things the other way around. Not feeling attracted physically at first, then getting to know the person (as in, being friends) and later on start feeling attracted to them physically. I am sure it's possible, but not sure it's possible for me personally.

This pattern is called demisexuality. And I'm afraid it can't be learned.
Maybe you're simply gray-asexual? (in a non-demi way)

------------------
I'm sooo happy! I mean, cappy.

IP: Logged

Doux Rêve
Moderator

Posts: 9168
From:
Registered: Dec 2010

posted August 13, 2014 11:10 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Doux Rêve     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
quote:
Originally posted by Ami Anne:
You have Mars in Scorpio, Doux. You feel out things and attraction is very important to you.Your basic nature is this kind of a feeling posture to life. What is your Venus?


Hm. Dunno. I don't feel my Mars unless I'm angry, lol.

Libra Venus, Ami. You forgot.

quote:
Originally posted by Yin:
Attraction can't be "learned" but it is possible for it to disappear and appear when you least expect it. Attraction evolves.

Worst thing to do to relationships is to force them where they won't go naturally.


Right. I really need to get this tattooed on myself. rofl

quote:
Originally posted by Ami Anne:
Something came into my mind for you and it is not going away, so I will share it. You need to find your PASSION.

I guess that goes for most people. I don't have passion(s), it's something that's completely foreign to me.
Thank you for your input, though. It makes sense.

quote:
Originally posted by Ami Anne:
I know. It is hard for you to put yourself out there. It is painful xx

You need Pholus conj Chiron where you just throw yourself out there


I actually have that aspect (not tight though - 4°). Moon/Pholus/Chiron conjunct in the 5H. Whatever the hell that means. Sounds like a bad combo, lol. Expansion of wounded feelings? Oh, I had no idea. Thanks for reminding me.

quote:
Originally posted by I'm so cappy:
This pattern is called demisexuality. And I'm afraid it can't be learned.
Maybe you're simply gray-asexual? (in a non-demi way)

I don't know, I don't think it's as cut and dry. Labels in general are not my forte.
Currently I don't even identify as a sexual person, so. When I talk about attraction I don't even know exactly what I refer to. It's mainly hypothetical. A sort of mental preparation for the possible future. Once I get it all figured out (if I do, that is).

Wee, look at this beautiful mess. :3

IP: Logged


This topic is 4 pages long:   1  2  3  4 

All times are Eastern Standard Time

next newest topic | next oldest topic

Administrative Options: Close Topic | Archive/Move | Delete Topic
Post New Topic  Post A Reply
Hop to:

Contact Us | Linda-Goodman.com

Copyright 2000-2014

Powered by Infopop www.infopop.com © 2000
Ultimate Bulletin Board 5.46a