By “interpersonal relationship” I mean friendships, familial bonds, or romantic relationships.

I’ll exclude family for a second because people tend to maintain those out of obligation and duty.

But friendships and romantic relationships especially (and even some bonds you have with the family members you truly click with) require an initial and ongoing organic “chemistry” as well as intentional mutual effort and consideration to maintain.

“Women no longer need men financially or socially. The only reason to be with a man is if he adds happiness and love into your life*. Many men do not like this, which is why they resort to scaremongering or going back to the bad old days when women had no autonomy.”

A woman responded with the above on a Threads about men who threaten women with “you’re going to die alone” “you’re a plant lady” and things of the sort.

The bolded stuck out to me because it’s true for all interpersonal relationships. For example, you’re only besties with someone if they add happiness and love to your life and vice versa.

Hot Take: I’ve observed that men (more men than women to be specific) find this aspect difficult for some reason? I’ve noticed this even in their friendships. I think that’s why they prefer “transactional” dynamics that are tangible (“money on the table”) and not based on mutual care and personableness. Thoughts?