These are the essential things to know before you start a new partnership.
Beginning a new relationship is usually very enjoyable (though sometimes a bit stressful). It’s easy to see how someone you enjoy and like feels about you. It’s hard to imagine anything better than this. Even if the two of you feel the same way, it is essential to keep your cool. There are some wrong and proper ways to start a new relationship. This can lead to a rocky relationship.
It’s normal to feel intense passion for someone you’re seeing. However, being enraptured can lead you to overlook potential red flags, such as misalignment or misalignment in your core beliefs and values. Kelly Campbell, Ph.D., is a psychologist and relationship expert. We spoke with her to get her views and to learn more about the best and worst ways to approach a new relationship.
MEET THE EXPERT
Kelly Campbell is a psychologist at California State University San Bernardino. She is a specialist in relationships.
Chemistry Between People Relies on These 7 Traits
Variation is a good idea for your dates.
Campbell suggests mixing it up early in life. Campbell means that instead of Netflix and chill, you take morning walks together, schedule lunch dates, and enjoy the company of colleagues and friends. She adds that watching your partner navigate different situations and relationships can be helpful. It is possible to get stuck in a rut early on. Remember: You don’t need to spend much money to have a great time with your partner.
You don’t always have to initiate dates.
Because there is so much to discuss, every date can feel like a first date in a new relationship. Our advice: These sweet stories should be saved for dates in person. Campbell suggests that “if they initiated plans the first time, you could initiate them the second time.” However, don’t be the one texting, calling, or initiating the plans.
They will stop trying to make an effort if they become used to you planning and reaching out.
Do Maintain Independence
You could lose your friends and yourself if you spend every moment with a new partner. Campbell says that partners are the best people to be with. Campbell says it is essential to spend time with family and friends and work hard. It is also vital to prioritize alone time. You can make your entire life depends on your partner.
Do not skip the Sexual Health Conversation.
Campbell says, “If you don’t feel comfortable asking them about STDs or STIs or sharing your sexual health with them, it’s probably not the right time to have sex.” Before you get intimate, have a healthy conversation about your health. This will allow you to have more fun and build confidence in your relationship.
Talking about sex with someone other than your partner should not be considered shameful. You can tell your partner what you like and dislike and what you would like to try.
Red Flags to Watch
Campbell states that neglecting red flags will only lead to the inevitable end of the relationship. She notes that if your new partner criticizes you and makes plans but then cancels them, or you witness them mistreating others, it is probably not worth the investment in the relationship for the long term. It’s easy to put on rose-colored glasses if you love someone. But you must see all of them.
Keep your distance
Campbell suggests you “try to be open to new food and participating in new activities.” It is best to keep controversial topics to a minimum at the beginning of a relationship.
Respect yourself
Being kind to yourself sets an excellent example of how you should treat your partner. It also indicates what you will or will not tolerate. Campbell says, “It’s okay to be principled, know yourself, and be yourself.” Do things for yourself too. You can suggest a date night on a different day if they call you with an unexpected date invitation.
Don’t Denigrate Yourself
Campbell suggests that you talk to your ex-partner about any past events. Keeping these things hidden is not a good idea because you want your partner to view you in a certain way.
Dating is a vulnerable process, especially in the beginning stages of a relationship. You shouldn’t feel ashamed to share your past relationships or other matters. You don’t have to be perfect, and hiding the experiences that shaped you into the person you are today is not necessary.
Do not have too much sex.
We live in a time that encourages sex positivity. This means we don’t think you need to wait for a specific time before having sex. There is no right or wrong time. Campbell explains that the right time is when both partners are ready. It’s a terrible thing to do in a relationship.
Communicate Well and Often
Campbell advises, “Say what you mean and mean it, be direct, considerate, choose the right battles, treat your partner well, and avoid damaging things like yelling, insulting, and judging.” You may have the ability to read your childhood friends’ minds. However, that type of closeness is only possible with time. Unfortunately, you and your partner don’t have years together. Expecting them to know your thoughts is unrealistic, so communicate as much as possible.
