 Terry Real, internationally recognized family therapist, speaker, and author has said, "Family dysfunction rolls down from generation to generation, like a fire in the woods, taking down everything in its path until one generation has the courage to turn and face the flames. That person brings peace to their ancestors and spares the children that follow." His powerful words beautifully capture what it means to break free from the grip of intergenerational trauma. The patterns we inherit from our families often shape the way we love, communicate, and connect. Yet within each of us lies the power to change that story—to become the generational hero who faces the fire, heals the past, and brings peace to both our ancestors and those yet to come.
Take a minute to reflect on the relationship patterns you grew up with—how people handled conflict, showed (or withheld) love, and dealt with emotions. These early experiences become wired into your nervous system, shaping how you react when tensions rise, especially in conflicts with your partner. In stressful moments, it’s natural to default to familiar habits—even when those habits don’t serve you well. Breaking free from old patterns is an act of bravery. It means pausing when everything inside you wants to react. When your partner or child triggers you, your instinct may be to argue, withdraw, or shut down. But growth happens when you resist those impulses and take a different path—the one that leads to understanding, peace, and healing. We didn't choose the inherited patterns but with courage, we can choose how to respond to them; we can rewrite the script. Changing your relationship dynamics isn't a one-time decision but a daily practice. Here are five steps to help you get started:
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