Relationships are good for you. Learn how to enjoy them.
Strange as it may sound, it can be hard to enjoy a healthy relationship. Even harder to enjoy it for long. Let’s look at how to turn that around.
Always clear your mind
To enjoy a relationship you have to keep some level of mental peace. Especially against intrusive thoughts. Intrusive thoughts include assumptions about your partner, their whereabouts, who they are texting, or what they are doing. Even if you don’t act on them, they can create a negative attitude and make you vigilant where you are supposed to feel safe and secure.
Accept that you might get hurt
It is not pessimistic to think about the way your relationship could end or how you might get hurt. You might even need it if you are the kind of person who thinks the worst.
But once you accept it, move on and enjoy your relationship. Know why this person is worth it and build with that.
Why stay around to wait for the hurt instead of staying alone or being with someone else if you feel safer that way? You must also acknowledge that you might hurt your partner instead.
Work to build trust and communication, work on your self-esteem, and ways you can be emotionally stronger for yourself and your relationship.
Avoid social media relationship advice
You don’t know the full story behind what people share on social media. Their experience is different and shouldn’t give you insight into your own. Even if you get to experience the same issues, it will be for different reasons and you will learn differently. Don’t pick up other people’s pain and insecurities, scroll on.
Always know your needs and wants
It is easier to be happy when you know what makes you happy and how to protect your happiness. Understand that needs change and that the relationship changes with them or it starts to become a problem.
Maintain other relationships
Don’t isolate yourself in a relationship too much. Keep up with friendships, colleagues, family, your communities, and yourself. Focusing too much on your relationship can drain it of joy and individuality.
Always heal from past heartbreak
Make peace with your emotions about past relationships. You can enjoy a thriving relationship with yourself until you are ready to trust again, learn from past mistakes, and can communicate better what you want.
Always pull your weight
Contribute to the relationship. Knowing your worth is great, but it should translate into meaningful contributions to the partnership. It can be of physical, emotional, or mental value to both of you.
Stop looking for fights
Learn how to pick your battles. Learn to handle genuine disagreements and conflicts that will undoubtedly happen. Fight with your partner against the problem rather than making them the enemy.