Love is one of the experiences that can make people do some uncharacteristic things. Whether it’s talking on the phone for countless hours, traveling across multiple states in order to spend time with a special person or sacrificing tickets to the NBA Finals in exchange for tickets to the ballet; love has the ability to shift the normal behavior of people. I’m sure you can attest to at least one crazy thing love has made you do during the course of your life. If not, you have witnessed this in the lives of friends or family.
The uncharacteristic behaviors listed above are what I classify as ‘cute love’ behaviors. However, there are some other critical decisions men and women make for a chance to solidify their aspirations for love. Take Washington, D.C. Attorney Tammy Watkins for instance, who made a decision to leave her position as a Staff Attorney in order to move closer to her boyfriend in Atlanta. Tammy and Jason Allen had been in a long-distance relationship for 7 months and wanted to take their relationship to the next level. They mutually agreed it would be easier for Tammy to find a job as an attorney in Atlanta compared to Jason trying to find a energy job in D.C.
Before I continue, please know that Tammy’s decision to move was made only from the perspective of pursuing her relationship, and prior to any engagement or marriage discussions.
Upon arrival to Atlanta, tension between Tammy and Jason slowly mounted. Tammy was unable to land an attorney position as she originally hoped and the highly-driven overachiever started to become frustrated. She left a successful, six-figure position in D.C. only to now find herself unemployed. Three months after Tammy’s arrival to Atlanta, the couple started to disagree and argue a lot more frequently. Five months after Tammy’s arrival, the couple decided to call it quits.
Looking back at her decision, Tammy still feels as if she made the right decision to pursue her relationship with Jason. Despite the failed relationship and blowing through her savings, Tammy believes she learned a lot by taking a risk and sacrificing comfort for a chance at love.
Tammy’s story made me wonder just how many people are willing to risk it all for love. Would you be willing to pick up and move to be with your boyfriend/girlfriend without a ring or proposal?
Tammy eventually landed a position with a large law firm here in Atlanta and has adjusted to her new life without Jason. Asked if she’d do it differently if given the opportunity, she responded, “I would still risk my career and comfort for a shot at love.â€
Kenny Pugh is a Life & Relationship Strategist, Author of ‘Can You Do It Standing Up?’, Speaker, HLN Contributor, singles leader and sought-after speaker on singleness, relationships, finances and life. You can find more information about Kenny at http://www.kennypugh.com. You can follow him on Facebook at Kenny Pugh or on Twitter @mrkennypugh.