The "Sleepless in Seattle Effect"

Umm, this is a bit embarrassing, but I'm a bit curious as to how common it is for one to obsess about someone they don't even know. I'm not talking about celebrities or famous people... just someone you come across one day, and they stick in your mind for years?

The reason I call it the Sleepless in Seattle Effect, is because of how the nature of Meg Ryan's character in the movie relates to this. She thought she was just crazy, but of course since it's a movie, it has a happy ending.

Now I've been in a few relationships, but every time they end, the thought of a certain girl (from 15 years ago) comes back to me. I feel as if I can't move on until I meet her. Though the chances of that happening are remote. Ugh... please someone relate to me so I don't feel *as* crazy.

I can totally relate to that. I'm in a relationship at the moment but there's always this person at the back of my mind.

Well, that makes two of us I guess.

Seems to me, the only way to stop thinking about her is to get involved in another relationship... problem is, if that relationship ends, then the thought of the girl from 15 years ago comes back even stronger. Bah, stupid emotions.

Just giving my post a nudge.
I'm surprised at the lack of replies!

This is only because you never met that woman and had a chance to see that she had flaws, as anyone else does. She probably caught your eye in a moment of need, and this image has been burned into your mind.

I would say try not to obsess too much, because if it begins to effect your current relationships, you may run into some serious trouble.

Take a step back and think about it, a woman whom you have never met and someone who has no idea that you exist is causing problems within your relationship.

That shouldn't happen.

See your current girlfriend for what she is, and if she is what you want to spend your life with.. then dig in!

I guess that sounds about right chissler... the logical explaination. I agree. But I still dream about meeting her. I wish I could just make the thoughts go away.

I would say try not to obsess too much, because if it begins to effect your current relationships, you may run into some serious trouble.

Easier said than done. I don't *try* to obsess... in fact when I realize I'm doing it I get upset at myself. I haven't been in a relationship for nearly two years now, and this "obsession" has only been a problem when I'm single. I do however worry about it becoming a problem if/when I get involved with someone again.

It's an internal fight in my mind between emotions and logic. I want the fairy tale to be true, but I know it's likely not. But then on a related note, I find no logical reason for companionship at all, yet I desire it (as most people do). This human nature stuff is killing me! :bnghd:

a quick and simple solution for ur problem dude, get a plank of wood, hold it in ur hands and hit ur head with it and hope for an amnesia...

seriously though u could try hypnosis, people have done that to forgot certain aspects of their life like the truama from accidents.(sp?)