u/Aggressive_Chart4995

I was looking for a new place to live and found a couple guys on Craigslist who were looking for a roommate. All they said was the general area of the place, which wasn't my first choice of neighborhood but very convenient for my work and school. Then they sent me the address and it's literally right across the alley from where my DM lives (we're currently in separation). It's also walking distance from my work and only a 15 minute bus ride from my school, and the rent is very affordable, so of course I decided to go for it.

I always joke about my dog being autistic just like me. She hated that we moved to a new place, but then she discovered his apartment building and his car and realized that her "friend" is right here. For a while she was trying to wait outside his apartment for him to come out, or wait by his car so he can give us a ride.

I thought about shooting him a text like "hey jsyk I'm not stalking you but I live in your neighborhood now." But I decided against it. I figure if we're meant to run into each other, we will. Just a funny, awkward/weird situation I wanted to share.

Maybe this is a stupid question that will be shot down, but I'm a very analytical person and I like to create strategies to produce the best possible outcome for things in my life. I know there are things you can do to make this journey longer and more painful than it needs to be, like obsessively pursuing someone in a way that crosses their boundaries. And many people say that the best way to achieve union is to let go of the need for this person and focus on yourself.

I know this is a unique journey for everyone, but I have noticed that it's extremely long and painful for some people and not so bad for other people. And at the same time, there are similar elements to each journey. A separation, a runner/chaser, both parties working on their own lives and then coming together.

What I'm wondering is, are there any more specific strategies that can help lead to a more positive outcome of this journey? And are there any lesser-known pitfalls that tend to prolong the suffering involved?