Personal Space

Personal space is a critical component to ensure that your relationship is healthy and successful. Having common interests and enjoying the company of your significant other is a great thing, but you must always remember that you are your own person with your own life, separate from your boyfriend or girlfriend.  One of the most common developments that occurs between two people in a relationship is they become so caught up in each other that separately they begin to lose their individuality. No matter how much you love someone or how much you enjoy being together, you should never become so consumed with them that it causes you to lose sight of who you are. 
 
There is a fine line that exists between being deeply involved in your loved ones life and being completely consumed by it. In relationships we want to be supportive, reliable, and enthusiastic about what the other person is passionate about or involved in. When you really care about someone, you want to be their rock and their solid foundation, the person who they can turn to for anything and everything. Being highly dedicated to your boyfriend or girlfriends life is incredibly valuable in maintaining a strong relationship, but make sure you do not let your involvement become so deep that it forces you to lose significance of your own life. 
 
It’s important for couples to realize that their self worth is not dependent on each other.  Just because you share your life with someone doesn’t mean that your every thought, hobby, and goal has to be exactly the same as that person.  How boring would it be to be with someone who does every single thing that you do?  What would they bring the relationship if they spent all of their time and energy on living in the shadow of your life? Relationships should shape you and mold you into a better version of yourself, not transform you into someone completely different.
 
A good tip is to try and do something by yourself and for yourself everyday.  Even if you live with your boyfriend or girlfriend, take the chance to have some alone time.  Whether it’s going on a run, taking a painting class, or meeting up with a friend to watch a sporting event, make sure you do something that makes you happy, independently from your other half.  Giving yourself personal space will allow you to grow independently and continue to pursue the things in your life that make you uniquely yourself.  Your significant other will respect you for having your own ambitions and interests, and in turn, you will have a much happier and healthier relationship and life.