08/15/2026
What I've learned from my horses is that all living creatures instinctively move toward what feels good
and away from what doesn't. If your energy is calm or if you bring treats, most horses will let you
approach them. If you're tense, forceful, or unpredictable, they move away. People work in a similar way.
Researcher Harry Harlow did a famous experiment where baby monkeys, who were separated from their
mothers, were given two choices: a soft, cloth 'mother' that provided no food, or a wire 'mother' that
dispensed milk. The babies consistently chose comfort over sustenance, clinging to the soft mother even
when they were hungry. This shows something profound: living creatures crave safety and comfort, and
without it, we don’t truly thrive.
So how do you become that source of emotional comfort for the people in your life?
1. Be mindful of your energy. Ask yourself: Am I inviting connection or creating distance? Am I being
supportive or am I being critical? Relationships flourish in warmth, not pressure.
2. Match your message. Horses read energy, more so than words. People do, too. If your tone or body
language doesn't match your message, the other person will trust what they feel over what you say. Be
congruent.
3. Be willing to wait. When you approach someone matters as much as how you approach them. If
someone is already stressed or overwhelmed, adding pressure makes things worse. Learn to read the
moment—sometimes the most loving thing you can do is wait for a better time to have that conversation.
Remember, being kind, clear, and calm isn't weakness—it's influence.
So, notice where you are creating comfort in your relationships. And where might you be accidentally
creating discomfort? If you want to have exceptional relationships, start by becoming someone who feels
good to be around.
If you want a step-by-step program that teaches you how to become a person others naturally feel safe
and drawn to, you’ll find it at NaturalRelationships.com.