Here's What I Know About...Being In A Relationship

First, a confession.

I'm not really a master of love and relationships. I've only been in one serious relationship my whole life, I've been busted a few times, I've never done something that's over-the-top-sweet to win a lady's heart, and I suck at making the first move.

Whatever blessings I have today, I received mostly through sheer luck (and a hell of a lot of effort). I have a lot to thank the universe for, basically.

I've been in a relationship for nearly three years now, and every single day has been a learning experience. Here are some of the things I know about being in a relationship.

1. Overthinking is useless.

I'd like to think that overthinking is a side effect of caring too much. However noble that may sound, overthinking has never brought anything positive to a relationship. It's also a sure-fire way to wreck one's mood and ruin his day. Relationships are never perfect, so it's important to do yourself a favor from time to time and stop overthinking. 

Love more, doubt less.

2. Never stop adapting to changes.

"Sa una lang daw masarap ang pag-ibig..."

- Bamboo

The beginning of a relationship will always be the standard of perfection. It's the period of getting to know each other in a deeper level and experiencing a lot of things together for the first time. The little things that make the relationship special are also established at this point, and the memories are some to cherish forever. However, change will always happen. The small, but special things will disappear and the established habits will change...

and it's normal.

Change is a sign of growth. Failure to adapt to these changes can result in missing out on something wonderful, something that's possibly better than before.

3. It helps to lessen your expectations.

Expecting too much will always lead to disappointment. Always choose to be happy. Lower your expectations, and everything else will follow.

4. Always treat your partner with respect.

There's never a good reason to be rude to anyone, even more to your partner. One wrong judgment can deal a serious blow to the relationship, so be cool. Strive to be a perfect gentleman or lady at all times. It's easy if you try.

5. Selfishness has no place in a relationship.

Although it's tempting to demand for something from time to time, it's important to know whether a demand is crossing the line from considerable to nearly impossible. If you fail to understand that, then you're being selfish. Being in a relationship means being part of a team, and your partner's happiness is just as important as yours. Learning to be sensitive and considerate will go a long way.

6. Swallow your pride from time to time.

Just do it. It won't make you less of a man or woman. It shows that you truly care for your partner and the relationship more than yourself, and that's admirable. 

7. Past is past.

Whatever happened in the past is better to be left in the past. Don't carry the pain or disappointment of before into the present or future. It won't only affect you mentally, but it will also put a strain on your relationship.

Learn to forgive. Learn to forget. Learn to move on.

8. Don't quit.

Contrary to the ideologies of every romantic-comedy film, relationships are never a walk in the park. One has to make a lot of sacrifices in order for it to work...

but it's so damn worth it.

"Walang forever" is for quitters. Don't ever quit on the person you love.