One of the great things about any new or old relationship is the feeling when we are able to just spend time uninterrupted with our loved ones. It doesn’t matter if we are sat at a spit and sawdust bar or chilling out and binge watching TV. We’re with them, and that’s perfect.
But it is important to also respect the fact that they want to spend time with friends and family, often with us in tone, often without us. It’s actually healthy for both sides of the relationship to have some time apart. Whilst it may feel a little jarring at first is the sign of a healthy relationship if we can let the other person go, if only for a few hours. As they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. And there is nothing worse than a clingy partner or spouse.
If the other partner never suggests going off and doing their own thing, do not imagine for a second that everything is rosy. They may be scared to broach the subject or insecure in themselves. Don’t be afraid to make the first move and suggest that you hang out with your friends for an evening whilst she goes and sees her friends or family. There is nothing to stop you texting or calling each other to see how each other’s evenings are going (as long as it is done in moderation and doesn’t consume the entire evening) and when you finally see each other again, you will feel rejuvenated and appreciative of each other.
The principle is the same for longer breaks. If you are girlfriend wants to go on holiday with her friends for a week, then a true, trusting and secure guy will have no issue with this. Just agree certain times and regularity for keeping in touch, and the time apart will feel like a countdown until you finally get to see each other again.
Giving each other space is daunting the first few times. But it is the ultimate test of a relationship’s strength, and you will be more in love for it.
