Episode 369: If I Can't Be Loved, I'll Be Needed

Episode 369: If I Can't Be Loved, I'll Be Needed

From Thanks for Sharing by Jackie Pack

June 3, 2026 · 33 min · Episode 371

About this episode

This episode explores the distinction between being needed and being loved in relationships and the implications of confusing the two.

I said that in a men's group a few years ago — and the room went silent. Everyone immediately understood what it meant to organize your life around being needed. What surprised me was what came next: when I introduced the idea of being chosen — freely, without obligation — some of the men weren't just skeptical. They weren't sure relationships like that actually existed.They had seen duty. Obligation. Dependence. But they weren't sure they'd ever witnessed two fully functioning adults who simply wanted each other.This episode is about the difference between being needed and being loved — and what it costs us when we confuse the two.New episode is live. Link in bio. Have a question or something you’d like me to talk about in a future episode? You can call the show and leave a voicemail or send me an email — I love hearing from you, and your feedback helps shape these conversations. https://thanksforsharingpodcast.my.canva.site/thanks-for-sharing-links #attachmenttheory #codependency #relationships #emotionalhealth #mentalhealth #therapy #beingneeded #beingloved #securelove #selfworth

People in this episode

Host: Jackie Pack

Topics covered

  • relationships
  • emotional health
  • attachment theory
  • codependency
  • self-worth

Keywords

  • attachment theory
  • codependency
  • relationships
  • emotional health
  • mental health
  • therapy
  • being needed
  • being loved
  • secure love
  • self-worth

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