Along with the excitement of being in a new relationship comes the feelings of butterflies and a well of hope that this person could be “the one.” Usually, these emotions last during the honeymoon phase, the first few months of dating, when everything seems picture-perfect.
While going through this euphoric stage, managing your expectations from the other person is important. Once your feet come back down to earth and you remove your rose-colored glasses, you may begin to see things differently.
Keep the honeymoon phase going longer with your partner with this helpful relationship advice:
1. They are human.
To err is human; to forgive is divine. Mistakes will be made, minor and significant. Unless it does not trample on your morals, definition of fidelity, or beliefs, try to give the other person leeway to make mistakes. Expecting your new partner to be perfect is a cross no one should bear.
2. They have a past.
They have dated before, maybe just one, maybe 100. Either way, the people they have spent time with have helped shape them into who they are now. Try not to be judgmental or jealous of where they have come from. Instead, focus on where the two of you may be going.
3. There will be similarities.
You may share the same tastes in food, music, and authors. Use what you have in common as a bond to keep your relationship moving forward. What you share in common could eventually be the duct tape that keeps you two together forever.
4. There will be differences.
He may not want to see the latest Emma Stone chick flick. She may not want to watch Game of Thrones. Whatever differences you have, try to make them the quirks about the other versus the complaints.
Unless it is entirely intolerable, learning to accept your partner’s oddities shows that you respect each other and agree to disagree on certain things.
5. They are not the end all, be all.
Although you two may be so wrapped up in each other that you can’t think straight, avoid being the 24/7 couple. You each have to spend time with your friends and family and do outside activities. Putting the pressure on your partner to be your best friend, lover, confidant, racquetball partner, and standing plus-one eliminates room for anyone else in your life.
Platonic friendships can be healthy extensions of a relationship and yourself. There’s no need to take ice hockey lessons if he plays on a team. Let him have his game day with the guys. You can spend this time getting a mani-pedi with your girlfriends and catching up on the latest gossip.
Don’t let the minor differences keep you from falling in love. Your ideal match may have a few imperfections, but they may still be perfect for you.
Originally written by Find Your Plus One on YourTango
Featured image via Gustavo Fring on Pexels
