Talks on Love Playlist (1/5): Your relationship expectations could be holding you back | Stephanie R. Yates-Anyabwile

Talks on Love Playlist (1/5): Your relationship expectations could be holding you back | Stephanie R. Yates-Anyabwile

From TED Talks Daily by TED

June 12, 2026 · 10 min

About this episode

Stephanie R. Yates-Anyabwile discusses how rewriting traditional relationship rules can lead to happier connections.

What if the secret to a happy relationship isn’t following the rules, but rewriting them? In this refreshing talk, couples therapist Stephanie R. Yates-Anyabwile explores why letting go of traditional societal expectations of romantic relationships — like sharing the same routines or even, in some cases, living together — can help couples embrace their individuality, reduce conflict and build stronger, more fulfilling connections. This episode originally aired in 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: TED

Guest: Stephanie R. Yates-Anyabwile

Topics covered

  • relationship expectations
  • couples therapy
  • individuality
  • societal norms
  • conflict reduction
  • fulfilling connections

Keywords

  • relationship
  • expectations
  • couples therapy
  • individuality
  • conflict
  • societal norms
  • happiness

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TED

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