#37 - Difference between Codependent and Interdependent?

What’s the difference between codependency and interdependence in relationships? CodependencyDefinition: An unhealthy reliance on another person for emotional or physical needs to the point of sacrificing one's own well-being.Key characteristics:Extreme focus on the other person's problems and needsDifficulty setting boundariesFear of abandonment or rejectionEnabling destructive behaviorsLow self-esteem and self-worthDifficulty expressing feelings and needsFeeling responsible for others' happinessDifficulty making independent decisionsInterdependencyDefinition: A healthy balance of dependence and independence in a relationship, where partners support each other while maintaining their individuality.Key characteristics:Mutual respect and understandingStrong communication skillsAbility to express feelings and needsHealthy boundariesTrust and supportAbility to function independentlyBalance of power and responsibilityShared goals and valuesGrowth and change are encouragedCharacteristics of Codependent People (from Melody Beattie’s Codependent No More)1)      Caretaking2)      Low Self-Worth3)      Denial4)      Poor Boundaries5)      Obsession and Dependency6)      Control (trying to control others)7)      Communication difficulties8)      Issues with intimacySteps to Take if You are Codependent1)      Figure out what you want.2)      Start doing what you need to do to meet those objectives. This builds self-love and makes it easier to set healthy boundaries.3)      Get help. (Check out Emil’s program on Conflict Resolution)Get your own copy of  - You Can Turn Conflict into Closeness