attachment issues

Hello Jo, I am also in the same boat as you. So it’s actually surprising and in a way nice that I’m not alone on this. My significant other also stated that I’m not as affectionate or ‘huggable’ compared to him. For me, it’s also my family in which we don’t really hug each other and we keep our personal space to high degree. While his family are way, way, way more affectionate. What I’ve been working on with being more open to being huggable is-it may seem kinda weak but I try and give my awkward half hug but I push myself to at least use my weirdly moved free hand to at least give a pat on the back then release. My friends and boyfriend were somewhat surprised (and I got worried at first cuz I thought it was weird for them) but they told it’s good step to show that I’m at least in his words more friendly.

Hope it helps in any way lol.

From an awkward person or awkward coconut lol -OptimisticCoconut 🌴🥥

Actually yes. I understand this well :)

I'm not affectionate most of the time. When I get hugs, doesn't matter from who, I get grossly stiff. It's a little embarrassing when it gets pointed out to me. I don't like initiating hugs. It just feels odd to do it.

I might be like this due to abuse I suffered as a child or the lack of parental love. From experience, there's no real reason to push yourself to be affectionate. You shouldn't do something that makes you uncomfortable. There's absolutely nothing wrong with being yourself and setting boundaries. Keep on give those side hugs if they make you feel comfortable. Any person who genuinely cares for you won't mind in the slightest.