By Tiffany Bailey | Yahoo! Contributor Network
When you are involved with someone for a long time, there is a possibility that you can lose yourself. The identity that you had before meeting your partner is still under the surface, but may need to be unleashed once in a while. It is important that you still have your own voice and opinions, even in the relationship. In order to avoid losing you, try to keep your routine the same. These are some activities you should continue to do, even after you are no longer single.
Keep your own voice
Make sure that you continue to speak for yourself. Giving someone else the power to voice opinions on your behalf can be incredibly dangerous. Even if you don't agree with what your partner does, don't sway just to please him. Keeping true to your beliefs will help you remain true to yourself and the people around you. I watched as a good friend lost her voice entirely in her relationship. She was having issues thinking for herself, and it seemed like she completely lost herself. It was incredibly sad to watch.
Remember who your friends are
Often when entering a new relationship, you lose sight of the people that have stuck by you through thick and thin. Your friends should remain important and highly active in your life. Continue to do the stuff you did with them before meeting your partner. If you are busier with your new situation, make sure you at least make time for your friends by going out once or twice a month. When I began dating my current boyfriend, it was hard for me to balance both. I was only able to see him on weekends due to work and distance, so I neglected my friends. It was not one of my finer moments, but I rectified the situation and things got better.
Develop an identity that is a mix between the new and old you
If you are putting on a "front" because of the new relationship, chances are people will notice. Finding an easy medium is the best way to go about this. Figure out what you will and won't compromise on, and go from there. Changing who you are in order to be with someone is not standard procedure. Make sure you know who you are, with and without him in your life. In the long run you will be happier and more comfortable in your own skin.
When you enter a partnership things are bound to change. Make sure you continue to be yourself and don't allow anyone to influence you otherwise. If you can't be the person you were before meeting him, it is not worth the continuation of the relationship. Remember that being yourself is the best and only way to go.
No comments:
Post a Comment