[Rose of Cairo]

Originally Posted by seeker5

That may be the viewpoint of viewing relationship as a barrier to overcome. That is - push the relationship down in importance so it doesn't interfere with the most important stuff.

Not necessarily. Even if the relationship works well and helps me contribute to the world, there are things that are simply more important than being in a relationship, for example my own health and well-being, the health and well-being of the animals I share my life with, living accordingly to my values, making a difference and fulfilling my purpose, etc. Those things will always have a higher priority for me than any romantic relationship, just like they will always be more important than having a bunch of lovely friends or being financially successful. Even though having a bunch of lovely friends or being financially successful also helps a lot to contribute to the world and makes everything nicer. (I personally also find a bunch of lovely friends and financial success way more important than a romantic relationship in regards to contributing)

However, what about PD? Those of us who are focused on Personal Development make it one of our top priorities in life, if not the top priority.

Really? I can't see that. As far as I can see, people who are focused on PD have very diverse views on the importance of romantic relationships, and many of them do not make it their top priority.

So, what if having a very well constructed relationship made the ability to contribute so incredibly much better? So, if placing the relationship as the number 2 spot (number 1 spot being living in your values) made you able to contribute so much more (which would be your number 3 spot) then say.....if you had contribute as number 2 and relationship as number 5? Because perhaps by placing a bunch of stuff as more important then the relationship, then the relationship instead of being well oiled to help contribute, it instead becomes a detriment and takes away?

Dunno. Try out if it works for you. I personally wouldn't want a relationship that is detrimental when I don't make it my top priority.

I dunno though, I don't connect with placing priority numbers with different parts of life.

I don't mind putting numbers on things. I find it very helpful when I have to make decisions. I just have to look at the priorities I set.