Dear Margot: Wanting To Be Closer with Cousin

Dear Margot,

“I really love my family & I like them all equally but my cousin who I’ve known for years is like my best friend, which doesn’t feel like enough. Should I do anything about this or talk to them about how I feel?”

First, I think that it's normal to want to have a closer relationship with your cousin. Having a close-knit or a great connection with your cousin is something that you should be grateful for, and not ashamed or confused about. Keeping a close bond with your cousin shouldn’t cause issues or problems with the rest of your family either. It’s important to have a good bond with both sides, even with the close connection.

Something else you could do is communicate. You should try to talk about this with either your cousin or anyone else you’re closer with, if you’re comfortable with that. The best thing to do is express your feelings with others. Bottling it up isn’t always the best option. 

There is also no need to overthink or worry about this. Having a positive and mutual connection with a family member is a good thing. Always have boundaries and keep space if anything becomes rocky between you and your cousin. Keep in touch with them and always make time for each other. 

Sincerely,

Margot

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