Wendy’s Reflection: Making Sense of Relationships

Wendy shares her experience and reflections on taking part in our new and recently completed Making Sense of Relationships course.

Gaining Clarity and Confidence

I really enjoyed taking part in the Making Sense of Relationships course — it genuinely lived up to its name. As a neurodivergent person, relationships have often felt confusing, but this course gave me more clarity. The scenarios we explored were especially helpful, as they made the ideas feel real and practical.

A New Look at My Relationships

The relationships matrix was a real eye‑opener. It showed me how much time and energy I put into different relationships, and how much I get back. Seeing this so clearly has made me think about adjusting some of my relationships so they can be healthier and more balanced. Some of the self‑reflection was tough, but it was important learning.

Understanding Relationship Dynamics

I was already familiar with the Drama Triangle, but discussing how we move between its roles helped me understand myself better. I recognise myself mainly as a Rescuer, though I sometimes slip into the Victim role too.

The Winners Triangle was new to me and felt like a more empowering version. The Hope Triangle stood out most — writing down how I want my relationships to look and how I want to show up in them was surprisingly therapeutic and helped me notice things I hadn’t realised before.

Putting New Tools Into Practice

FAST and GIVE were completely new concepts for me, and I’ve already started using them to communicate more clearly and set healthier boundaries. It’s a work in progress, but I can already see small positive changes.

Looking Ahead

Overall, I found the course informative, helpful, and genuinely eye‑opening. I only wish it had been longer — I feel there’s still so much more to learn. I would happily recommend this course to anyone who wants to understand their relationships better or feels ready to make positive changes in their life.

 

5 Positive Facts About Connection & Wellbeing

1. Strong social connections help us live longer, healthier lives.

Supportive relationships are linked to improved overall health and a reduced risk of early death, according to the World Health Organization. [who.int]

2. Feeling connected boosts emotional wellbeing.

People who experience strong belonging and supportive relationships report better emotional health and higher life satisfaction. The CDC highlights social connection as a key protective factor for wellbeing. [cdc.gov]

3. A sense of community greatly improves our health.

Those who feel they belong within their community are 2.6 times more likely to rate their health as good or excellent. [hhs.gov]

4. Positive relationships help us cope with stress.

Supportive social networks can soften the effects of stress and help our bodies respond in healthier ways. [hhs.gov]

5. Connection supports learning, growth, and resilience.

Young people with positive relationships with peers, parents, and teachers show stronger social‑emotional development and improved learning outcomes. [hhs.gov]