Acharya Prashant addresses the question of whether to live alone or in a relationship by first establishing that we are always relating. He explains that as long as one is bodily alive, being in a relationship is not a choice. Even when seemingly alone, a relationship exists between each of us. Therefore, the pertinent question is not whether to relate, but rather, who is the one relating, how are they relating, and why. The focus should be on the quality and source of the relationship, as relating is happening anyway. He describes two primary ways of relating. The first, and more common, way proceeds from an incomplete 'I-sense'. In this state, the purpose of the relationship is to gain completion through the other. One looks at the other as a 'missing half' to find fullness and contentment. This type of relationship is characterized by a hungry and desperate outlook, where the individual is dissatisfied and meek. Consequently, the relationship is filled with dependence and exploitation. Using an analogy, he compares this to a desperate, thirsty person who, upon finding water, would never want to let it go, which is a form of exploitation. This is the prevailing way people relate, where 'I love you' actually means 'I need you'. When the other person is no longer needed, the relationship becomes difficult to sustain. The second way of relating is born from a state of being already alright, where one's aloneness is absolutely sufficient and blissful. From this state of fullness, one relates not out of neediness, but out of a desire to show others that they too are not truly needy. This relationship is one of compassion, intended to rid the other of their needless needs. One can also relate for no purpose at all, simply for fun, as a collaboration for nothing. This is possible when both individuals are already living need-lessly. The great ones, he states, have been great relaters, in a relationship with all of humanity, animals, and even non-sentient beings, because their love and compassion knew no boundaries. He concludes by advising to relate to give, not to take, and to not use the other to fill an inner hollowness, as that is not love but selfishness.