YIKES-- The Return of Needy Thoughts and Clingy Feelings!
Clingy feelings must be the worst feelings, aside from shame and guilt. Clingy feelings are usually tied to needy thoughts like “I can’t stand to be alone with myself” or “I need you (could be anyone) to rescue me from myself and make me OK.” Codependents are very familiar with needy thoughts and clingy feelings. Prior to recovery, needy ideas and clingy feelings were pretty much the norm for me. They dominated my day—every day of the week. Recovery has allowed me to feel much more comfortable in my own skin, but occasionally clingy feelings still sneak up on me. This happened during my recent vacation. I spent a lot of time with my friend Richard over my two weeks of vacation, and for some unknown reason, needy ideas and clingy feelings began to resurface around him. Richard and I live in different states so I don’t see him that often. In the past when I’ve spent time with him I’ve enjoyed that time without feeling needy or clingy. But last month was different. I fou...