More complicated than I imagined...

[Michael Mc C]

It all depends on the situation and perception.

A relationship talk is coming up. You are aprehensive and nervous as all get out. Rather than telegraph those emotions you act "as if" otherwise things can and will go south very quickly.

Right, I see what you mean. I'm not living a lie, I'm projecting my PMA instead of appearing to be beaten before the discussion even begins.

I think there are times though when you should drop this and stand you ground. Not need to be a doormat.

And I agree here as well. I've let myself feel trampled before and it doesn't do either of us any good. I have been "graciously" letting her know when she's expecting something from me for which she should have no reasonable expectation. Didn't do that enough in the M maybe.