Different Couples, Same Problems
Some say opposites attract. Others say it is best to find someone with whom you share similarities. Whichever you choose, one is not better than the other. It is simply up to the individual and their relationship preference.
Depending on which preference you choose, you will face certain challenges either way. Those who are too similar will find themselves butting heads and fighting for the spotlight. However those who are opposites will argue over not seeing eye-to-eye on certain issues.
So what gives? You date someone similar thinking things will be easier, but its isn’t always smooth sailing. Or you find your opposite to compliment you, and it causes fiction now and then. The truth is that dating is not bulletproof. Every relationship will have its ups and downs, but it is how you handle them that determines how things will all pan out.
Despite being compatible most of the time, what do you do when times get tough? Here are a few things to do whether your partner is your carbon copy or your complete opposite:
Talk it out
The cliche that communication is key is so true. If you are in an argument no matter the relationship, talking it out is necessary. If you sweep it under the rug, you are only prolonging your issues that can become an even bigger fight one day. So it is best to get your emotions and feelings out there and rip the bandage off. It may not be easy, but it is the best way to get everything out in the open for a fresh start and get to the core of any lingering issues you two may have.
Meet in the middle
Compromise is also key. Sure, both parties can take turns caving in, but eventually it turns into a fight of who gave up more and how many times. Instead, you should always try to meet in the middle. You both should give a little and find a middle ground with which you are both comfortable.
Future roadmap
Once you have talked it out and came to a compromise, then what? While it may sound odd, it may be a good idea to talk about how you each would like to handle conflict moving forward. Just like some have different love languages, some also address conflict differently. If you know how each other handles conflict, you can handle obstacles when they come up. Sounds different, but give it a shot and I bet you will notice a huge difference next time you are both caught in a rut.
Born and raised in Northern Virginia, Christina aspires to be a public relations professional in a big city after graduation from James Madison University. In her free time when she’s not blogging away about dating and relationships, Christina loves to go shopping, watch Netflix and play with every puppy that crosses her path.