How to Not Lose Yourself in a Relationship
Many say that love makes colours brighter, smells stronger, and people happier. But there is a fine line between feeling those emotions and getting so wrapped up in them that you end up losing who you were before. Falling in love can take over many areas of your life and it can be challenging to manage the intoxicating feelings that come with it. It is natural to want to spend all your time with your partner, but a healthy relationship needs boundaries, communication, and even space. Here are some tips on not losing yourself in a relationship:
Prioritize yourself
No matter the relationship, it is vital to prioritize your personal time, goals, needs, and passions. It can be easy to let go of what is important to you. Remember that you should not have to change who you are or what you like to be more compatible with the person you are with. Do not let go of the things that make you you – whether it be your hobbies, interests, or doing the things that fill you up.
Prioritize the other people in your life
When you get into a relationship, it is normal to want to spend all your time with that person. Remember to nurture the other relationships in your life, like your friends and family. The people who knew you before your relationship can help keep you in touch with your true self. It is important to set aside time to spend time with your loved ones. Schedule regular time to spend with family and friends, whether that means having dinner with your parents, going on a hike with a friend, or attending a family event. Spending time apart from your significant other will also make it that much more meaningful when you do spend time with them.
Set boundaries
Setting physical and emotional boundaries with your partner will help you maintain your sense of self by protecting who you are and your identity. The first step in setting boundaries is to identify what is important to you and what you are willing and not willing to accept in the relationship. This can include things like the amount of time you spend together, your personal space, your values, and your beliefs. Be sure to communicate your boundaries with your partner so that they can know what they are and respect them.
Communicate
Communicate openly and honestly with your partner to make sure you are both on the same page about how you will balance your time and attention. Let your significant other know that you want each other to grow as individuals instead of growing together into one person. Them respecting and appreciating this is a sign of a healthy relationship. Communicating this with your partner could also inspire them to join you in balancing their responsibilities and loved ones while in the relationship.
Final Thoughts
Falling in love, building a bond, and caring for your connection doesn’t mean that you have to give up who you are. Incorporating another person in your life can change you for the better, but it’s essential not to lose yourself in your relationship and allow your partner space to be themselves.
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