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Tag: Couple Relationships

  • 30 Romantic Emoji Meanings — Decoded for You

    30 Romantic Emoji Meanings — Decoded for You

    In the digital age, knowing the romantic emoji meanings is important because emojis have become an essential part of our communication, adding emotion and fun to our messages. Particularly in romantic relationships, emoji love texts can convey affection, flirtation, and even deeper emotions without the need for words. However, the meaning of an emoji can sometimes be ambiguous, leading to misunderstandings. To help you with the world of digital romance, here’s a comprehensive guide to 30 romantic emoji meanings, decoded just for you.

    The Language Of Emojis In Modern Dating

    Dating these days is all about swiping right and chatting it up online. But with just texts to rely on, things can get confusing fast. That’s where emojis come in, like little digital BFFs helping you express yourself. Romantic emoji texts can be your secret weapon for flirting. A playful wink or a silly tongue sticking out can show you’re interested without being too cheesy. A smirk can add a bit of mystery, keeping the conversation going. Think of them as flirty cues in the virtual space. 

    But romantic emoji texts can be tricky too. They seem innocent, but they might send the wrong message depending on who you’re chatting with. And it’s very important to know emojis and their meaning. A thumbs-up might seem chill, but in a flirty convo, it can come off as a total shutdown. So, it’s best to play it cool until you get a vibe for how your date uses emojis.

    Related Reading: 20 Questions To Build Emotional Intimacy And Bond With Your Partner On A Deeper Level

    Here’s how to use emoji love texts like a dating pro:

    • Match the mood: Keep it light and playful for fun chats, and more subtle for serious stuff
    • Start small: Don’t overwhelm your date with a wall of emojis. Throw in a few here and there and see how they respond
    • Context is key: What an emoji means depends on what you’re saying and who you’re saying it to
    • Unsure? Don’t use it: If you’re not 100% sure what an emoji means, it’s best to leave it out
    • See what works best for you: Every relationship is unique, so personalize your emoji use based on what resonates with you and your partner. Some couples might find certain emojis more meaningful than others
    • Words still matter: If you’re shy or unsure about expressing your feelings in words, emojis can be a great way to break the ice and convey your emotions subtly. While emojis are powerful, following up with words can add clarity and depth to your message. Use emojis as a supplement to your verbal communication

    30 Romantic Emoji Meanings You Must Know

    Time to check out some romantic emoji meanings! Emojis are basically the new dating must-have, like the perfect first-date outfit. They help you flirt, show you care, and even crack jokes—all without needing a thesaurus. But with so many emoji options, things can get confusing faster than you can say “swipe left”. Worry not, we’re about to teach you some emojis and their meaning! Now whether it’s a black heart meaning or a green heart meaning, we decode it all for you and turn you into an emoji love texts pro in no time.

    Related Reading: 9 Heartwarming Actions Of Love That Speak Louder Than Words

    1. ❤️ Red heart—a classic expression of love

    We all have used this countless times. But what’s the meaning of this emoji? Let’s decode the red heart meaning. The classic red heart symbolizes love and romance. It’s a straightforward way to express deep affection and love for someone special. You can also just call it the “I love you emoji.”

    2. 😘 Face blowing a kiss—shows your affection

    This love emoji shows a face blowing a kiss, with a heart leaving the lips. It’s perfect for sending a romantic kiss or expressing affection and love in a playful manner.

    3. 😍 Smiling face with heart eyes—the expression of adoration

    The face with heart eyes represents adoration and intense attraction. Use it to show that you’re head over heels for someone or that you find them incredibly attractive.

    4. 💕 Two hearts—an extra heart for extra love

    The pink hearts meaning is quite self-explanatory if you look closely. The two pink hearts emoji signifies a close bond and shared love. It’s often used to show mutual affection and connection between partners.

    Related Reading: 12 Clear Signs You Are Infatuated And Not In Love

    5. 💓 Beating heart—one that beats for you

    Wondering what’s the meaning of this emoji? A beating heart symbolizes passion, excitement, and deep love. It conveys that your heart beats faster for the person you love.

    6. 💖 Sparkling heart—a symbol of magical love

    The sparkling heart adds an element of magic and enchantment to your love. It represents a love that’s bright, shiny, and special.

    7. 💗 Growing heart—depicts your growing love

    This emoji depicts a heart that’s growing bigger and bigger. It signifies a love that’s growing stronger over time.

    8. 💘 Heart with arrow—Cupid is doing his job

    A heart with an arrow through it represents being struck by Cupid’s arrow. It’s used to show that you’ve fallen in love or that someone has captured your heart.

    9. 💝 Heart with ribbon—the gift of love

    This love emoji shows a heart wrapped in a ribbon, symbolizing a gift of love. It’s perfect for showing that you consider your love a precious gift.

    Related Reading: 31 Intriguing Psychological Facts About Love

    10. 💞 Revolving hearts—shows the dynamic of love

    You soon find out what coloured hearts mean, but what’s the revolving pink hearts meaning? Revolving hearts indicate a strong, dynamic connection between two people. It’s often used to show that your love is vibrant and active.

    11. 💌 Love letter—a romantic message 

    The love letter emoji features an envelope with a heart, representing a romantic message. It’s ideal for sending digital love notes.

    12. 💟 Heart decoration—the heart is the gift of love

    The heart decoration emoji is a decorative symbol of love. It’s great for adding a touch of romance to your messages.

    white heart meaning

    13. 💜 Purple heart emoji meaning—spiritual love

    The purple heart emoji meaning is truly intriguing. The purple heart signifies a deep, profound love. It’s often associated with a love that’s spiritual and intense. 

    14. 🧡 Orange heart meaning—the warmth of love

    What’s the orange heart meaning? It represents a warm, friendly love. It’s perfect for showing affection that’s sincere and tender. You can use it with both friends and family.

    Related Reading: 150 Thinking Of You Quotes For Your Special Someone

    15. 💛 Yellow heart meaning—the love of friendship

    The yellow heart meaning isn’t very different from what yellow roses represent. The yellow heart stands for happiness, joy, and friendship. It’s used to show a cheerful and optimistic kind of love.

    16. 💚 Green heart meaning—the harmony of love

    Have you ever wondered, “What could be the green heart meaning?”, and skipped using it altogether? Well, you don’t have to do that anymore! A green heart symbolizes a healthy, harmonious love. It’s often used to express a balanced, nurturing relationship.

    17. 💙 Blue heart meaning—deep love like the sea

    The blue heart meaning boils down to the representation of a deep, calm love. It’s associated with loyalty and trust in a relationship.

    18. 🖤 Black heart meaning—the memory of love

    What’s the black heart meaning? A black heart can signify a dark, intense love or a sense of loss. It’s used to express a deep emotional connection or to mourn a lost love.

    19. ❤️‍🔥 Heart on fire—the passion is off the roof

    The heart on fire emoji represents a passionate, fiery love. It’s used to show intense desire and attraction.

    Related Reading: 125 Sweet Things To Say To Your Wife In A Text

    20. 🤎 Brown heart meaning—the stability of love

    A brown heart represents a love that’s grounded and stable. It’s associated with a deep, enduring affection.

    21. 🤍 White heart meaning—the selfless love

    The white heart symbolizes pure, unconditional love. It’s often used to express a love that’s innocent and sincere. Much like the color white, white heart meaning also boils down to purity.

    22. ❤️‍🩹 Mending heart—it’ll get better 

    A mending heart signifies healing and recovery in love. It’s perfect for expressing reconciliation or overcoming a heartbreak together.

    23. 😚 Kissing face with closed eyes—the emoji of affection

    Those red cheeks look cute, huh? You can also call it the blush emoji or the kissing blush emoji. This emoji shows a face with closed eyes giving a kiss. It’s used to express affection and tenderness, often in a more subdued way than the face blowing a kiss.

    24. 😻 Smiling cat face with heart eyes—playful love

    The cat version of the heart-eyes emoji adds a playful touch to your adoration. Use it to show a fun, light-hearted attraction.

    on romance

    25. 😙 Kissing face with smiling eyes—a happy kiss

    The kissing face with smiling eyes represents a happy, affectionate kiss. It’s used to show love and joy in a relationship.

    26. 🥰 Smiling face with hearts—happiness in love

    This emoji features a smiling face surrounded by hearts. It’s used to show a warm, loving feeling, perfect for expressing affection and happiness.

    Related Reading: 11 Surprising Examples Of Flirting That Say Someone’s Into You

    27. 🥺 Pleading face—vulnerability of love

    The pleading face, with its big, watery eyes, can be used to show vulnerability and a desire for love and affection. It’s often used to ask for something sweetly.

    28. 🤗 Hugging face—a virtual hug

    The hugging face emoji shows a face with open arms, ready to give a hug. It’s used to offer a virtual hug, expressing care and affection.

    29. 🥂 Clinking glasses—celebrating love

    Clinking glasses symbolize celebration and special moments. It’s used to celebrate love, anniversaries, and romantic milestones.

    Related Reading: 65 Funny Texts To Get Her Attention And Make Her Text You

    30. 🎁 Wrapped gift—the gift of love

    The wrapped gift emoji represents giving or receiving a special gift. It’s perfect for showing that your love is a treasured present.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What does 🥰 mean from a girl?

    The meaning of this emoji, regardless of who sends it, stays the same. It conveys warm and positive feelings. It can express love, affection, strong liking for someone or something, or even excitement.

    2. What does ❤️ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜 🖤 mean?

    Red heart meaning is simple, it is the classic symbol of love. The orange heart is often used for warmth. Yellow heart represents joy. Green heart symbolizes nature. Blue heart can represent trust. Purple heart is often used for feelings of affection and care. Black heart can express sadness.

    3. What does the emoji 🥰 mean from a guy?

    The meaning of this emoji does not vary depending on who’s sending it. It is used to express love, affection, or enjoyment of your message.

    4. What is the meaning of 💕 this emoji?

    This emoji is often used to represent love and affection between two people. It can also signify a strong liking for something.

    Key Pointers

    • Ensure that the emoji you choose aligns with the sentiment you want to convey. Not every emoji is an “I love you emoji.” For example, use the red heart for deep love and the kissing face for affection. Similarly, the blue heart meaning is different from the yellow heart meaning
    • While emojis can enhance your message, overusing them might make your communication seem less sincere. Use them sparingly to maintain their impact
    • The context of your conversation is crucial. Some emojis might be appropriate in one scenario but not in another. Think about the overall tone of your message before adding emojis
    • Every relationship is unique, so personalize your emoji use based on what resonates with you and your partner. Some couples might find certain emojis more meaningful than others
    • Sometimes, combining multiple emojis can better express your feelings. For example, a red heart followed by a face blowing a kiss can show both love and affection
    • If you’re shy or unsure about expressing your feelings in words, emojis can be a great way to break the ice and convey your emotions subtly
    • While emojis are powerful, following up with words can add clarity and depth to your message. Use emojis as a supplement to your verbal communication

    Final Thoughts

    Emojis have revolutionized the way we express emotions in digital communication, especially in romantic relationships. Understanding emojis and their meaning can help you convey your feelings more effectively and avoid misunderstandings. Whether you’re just starting a new romance or nurturing a long-term relationship, knowing romantic emoji meanings can enhance your digital love language, making your messages more expressive. So, go ahead and sprinkle your conversations with these emojis to add a touch of romance and magic to your love life.

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  • 100 Things for Couples to Do Together

    100 Things for Couples to Do Together

    What do you want to do tonight? What should we do this weekend? Ummm, you tell me. I’m down for anything. I don’t know, anything is cool…So, what should we do? Sounds familiar? We’re here to help you break out of this cycle of indecision with a list of not 10, not 20, but 100 things for couples to do together. 

    Why did we think this was important? Because relationships thrive on shared experiences and activities that bring couples closer. It not only creates lasting memories you can hold on to when the going gets tough but also strengthens the emotional bond between couples. Continually looking for new things to do as a couple must be a priority in every relationship. To help you check that box, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide. From fun and adventurous outings to cozy home-based activities, there is something for everyone here.

    Importance of Bonding Activities for Couples

    Bonding activities for couples serve as a glue that holds relationships together, in ways more than one. They help build trust, foster better communication and understanding, and deepen emotional intimacy. They also give partners relationship goals to pursue, lending a sense of purpose to their togetherness. All of this comes together to help a relationship in the following ways:

    Related Reading: 35 Long-Distance Relationship Activities To Bond Over

    1. Strengthen emotional bonds: Activities that require teamwork help build emotional connections
    2. Enhance communication: Doing things together opens up opportunities for conversations and understanding
    3. Create shared memories: Fun and memorable experiences create a treasure trove of happy moments that couples can reminisce about
    4. Improve problem-solving skills: Shared effort helps couples be in more sync, enhancing their ability to tackle challenges collectively

    100 Things for Couples to Do Together

    Are you sold on the idea that it’s crucial to always be on the lookout for things to do as a couple? Great! In doing so, it’s equally important to explore a varied mix of activities that expose you to different experiences. For instance, emotional bonding activities for couples can help you feel more connected to your partner whereas fun activities for couples at home can bring in an element of playfulness to the relationship. Let’s help you get started with this compilation of 100 things for couples to do together:

    Related Reading: 15 Things To Do When Husband Is Not Affectionate Or Romantic

    Romantic things to do at home or outside with your boo

    Are you homebodies looking for romantic things to do at home? Or the outgoing kind looking to paint the town red in hues of romance? Either way, these bonding activities for couples have got your covered: 

    Enjoy a couples massage:
    1. Take a cooking class: Learn to cook new dishes and enjoy a delicious meal together.
    2. Plan a picnic: Pack your favorite foods and enjoy a meal in a beautiful outdoor setting.
    3. Watch the sunrise/sunset: Experience the beauty of the beginning or end of the day.
    4. Take a dance class: Learn salsa, tango, or ballroom dancing.
    5. Have a spa day: Relax and rejuvenate with massages and spa treatments.
    6. Visit a botanical garden: Admire the beauty of plants and flowers.
    7. Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience a breathtaking view from above.
    8. Have a candlelit dinner at home: Cook a romantic meal and enjoy it by candlelight — one of the most romantic things to do at home
    9. Go wine tasting: Visit a vineyard and sample different wines
    10. Stargazing: Look at the stars and learn about constellations
    11. Stay in a cozy mountain cabin: Enjoy a romantic weekend getaway in the mountains
    12. Go on a horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a scenic ride through a park or city
    13. Have a beach bonfire: Spend the evening by the fire with s’mores and stories
    14. Take a scenic train ride: Enjoy a leisurely ride through beautiful landscapes
    15. Visit a historic city: Explore the charm and romance of an old city
    16. Go to a wine and paint night: Sip wine while creating art together
    17. Enjoy a couples massage: Book a relaxing massage for two
    18. Take a scenic flight: See your city or a new location from above
    19. Attend a flower arranging class: Create beautiful arrangements together
    20. Go on a romantic cruise: Spend a few days at sea, enjoying each other’s company

    Related Reading: 23 FaceTime Date Ideas To Strengthen Your Bond

    Long-distance bonding activities for couples

    Distance should not be an impediment to emotional bonding activities for couples. Thanks to technology at our disposal today, finding ways to connect with your long-distance bae is easier than ever before. So make the most of it with these long-distance activities and hobbies for couples to explore. In our selection of 100 things for couples to do together, these are the most out-of-the-box ideas:

    bonding activities for couples
    Dream and plan for your future together
    1. Plan a virtual movie night: Watch the same movie while on a video call
    2. Send each other care packages: Surprise your partner with thoughtful gifts
    3. Have regular video call dates: Keep in touch through scheduled video calls
    4. Create a shared online photo album: Upload and share photos of your daily lives
    5. Plan visits in advance: Schedule and plan visits to see each other
    6. Write love letters: Send handwritten letters to express your feelings
    7. Take online classes together: Enroll in a course or hobby class online
    8. Play online games together: Engage in multiplayer online games
    9. Share a journal: Write in a shared journal and mail it back and forth
    10. Organize virtual cook-offs: Bring out your competitive spirit. Have a cook-off of the same recipe while on a video call
    11. Create playlists for one another: Share music that reminds you of each other
    12. Watch a series together: Sync up and watch episodes at the same time
    13. Create a bucket list: Make a list of things you want to do when you’re together
    14. Have a virtual dinner date: Order food from the same restaurant chain and eat together
    15. Read the same book: Start a book club for two
    16. Send each other surprise gifts: Keep the romance alive with unexpected presents
    17. Workout together virtually: Exercise while on a video call.
    18. Get naughty: Flirt with each other, sext, and have steamy video calls 
    19. Play 20 questions: Learn more about each other with a fun game
    20. Make future plans: Dream and plan for your future together

    Related Reading: 23 Refreshing Sunday Date Ideas For A Romantic Weekend

    Fun things to do as a couple

    Looking for fun activities for couples at home or outside? Want to explore hobbies for couples that you can pursue together? Look no further. 

    Fun things to do as a couple
    Sing your favorite songs together
    1. Go hiking: Explore nature and enjoy each other’s company on a scenic hike
    2. Have a movie marathon: Spend the day watching your favorite films or a new series
    3. Go on a road trip: Plan a spontaneous road trip and explore new places together
    4. Attend a concert: Enjoy live music from your favorite band or artist
    5. Visit a zoo or aquarium: See and learn about different animals
    6. Go to a theme park: Enjoy rides, attractions, and shows
    7. Have a game night: Play board games, card games, or video games
    8. Go ice skating: Enjoy a fun day at the ice rink
    9. Have a karaoke night: Sing your favorite songs together
    10. Go roller skating: Enjoy a fun day at the roller rink
    11. Attend a sports event: Cheer for your favorite team
    12. Visit an amusement park: Enjoy thrilling rides and games
    13. Go to a comedy show: Laugh together at a stand-up comedy performance
    14. Do a puzzle together: Work on a challenging puzzle and celebrate when you complete it
    15. Explore a new city: Take a trip together to a city you’ve never been to before
    16. Try a new sport: Pick up tennis, golf, or another sport that interests both of you
    17. Have a water balloon fight: Cool off and have fun in the sun
    18. Go bowling: Enjoy a casual and fun game of bowling
    19. Take a dance class: Learn a new dance style together
    20. Visit a farmer’s market: Shop for fresh produce and local goods

    Related Reading:  Romantic French Phrases And Words To Impress Your Significant Other

    Unique activities for couples to bond over 

    Want to push the limits and set couple goals with the activities you and your partner do together? Well, this list of 100 things for couples to do together isn’t going to disappoint. Here are some unique ideas for you to try with your partner: 

    activities for couples
    Experience the culture and traditions of a different community
    1. Visit a haunted house: Experience the thrill of a spooky adventure
    2. Take a pottery class: Create your own pottery pieces
    3. Go on a ferry ride: Enjoy the water and sights from a ferry
    4. Take a scenic train ride: Enjoy the beauty of a scenic railway journey
    5. Try geocaching: Go on a modern-day treasure hunt
    6. Go zip-lining: Experience the thrill of zip-lining
    7. Visit a ghost town: Explore the history of an abandoned town
    8. Attend a cultural festival: Experience the culture and traditions of a different community
    9. Go whale watching: See these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat
    10. Visit an ice hotel: Spend a night in a hotel made entirely of ice
    11. Go to a lantern festival: Experience the beauty and magic of a lantern festival
    12. Take a helicopter tour: See the sights from a new perspective
    13. Stay in a treehouse: Enjoy a unique and adventurous stay
    14. Go on a safari: Experience the thrill of seeing wild animals
    15. Visit a wildlife sanctuary: Learn about and see different animals up close
    16. Go dog sledding: Experience the excitement of dog sledding
    17. Take a hot air balloon ride: Get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape
    18. Attend a renaissance fair: Step back in time and enjoy the festivities
    19. Try indoor skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving in a wind tunnel
    20. Visit a natural wonder: Explore a famous natural landmark together.

    Related Reading: 25 Games To Play With Your Girlfriend – Fun, Flirty, And Exciting

    Intimate emotional bonding activities for couples

    Feeling closer and more connected to your partner is among the universal relationship goals. We help you inch closer to it with these intimate things to do as a couple:

    Emotional-bonding-activities-for-couples
    Have a picnic in the park
    1. Have a movie marathon in bed: Watch your favorite movies while cuddling in bed
    2. Take a bath together: Enjoy a relaxing bath with candles and soft music
    3. Cook a gourmet meal together: Collaborate on a fancy dinner at home
    4. Have a photo shoot: Capture fun and romantic moments together
    5. Write love notes: Leave each other love notes in unexpected places
    6. Take a couples yoga class: Practice mindfulness and flexibility together
    7. Create a couples scrapbook: Compile photos and memories into a scrapbook
    8. Have a barbecue: Cook and enjoy delicious food outdoors
    9. Take a scenic drive: Enjoy beautiful landscapes and views
    10. Go paddleboarding: Try out this fun water activity together
    11. Have a game night: Play board games, card games, or video games
    12. Take a painting class: Unleash your creativity with a painting session
    13. Have a candlelit dinner at home: Cook a romantic meal and enjoy it by candlelight
    14. Go wine tasting: Visit a vineyard and sample different wines
    15. Have a picnic in the park: Plan a romantic picnic for the weekend and enjoy a relaxing meal outdoors
    16. Do a puzzle together: Work on a challenging puzzle and celebrate when you complete it
    17. Take a scenic bike ride: Find a beautiful route and go biking
    18. Plan a staycation: Spend quality time together without leaving town
    19. Go to a drive-in movie: Enjoy a classic movie-watching experience
    20. Attend a workshop: Learn a new skill like pottery, painting, or photography

    Related Reading: Activities Couples Can Do When Bored At Home

    Infographic On Couples Bucket List Ideas

    Now that you have discovered what fun it can be to find new things to do as a couple, why stop at it. Use this compilation of 100 things for couples to do together to come up with a bucket list of activities and experiences you want to explore together. Here is a quick round up for couples bucket list ideas to inspire you:

    Couples Bucket List Ideas

    FAQs

    1. What is a bucket list in a relationship?

    A bucket list in a relationship is a list of activities, experiences, or goals that a couple wants to achieve together. It often includes a mix of fun, adventurous, romantic, and unique experiences that help strengthen the bond between partners and create lasting memories.

    2. How to have fun as a couple?

    Having fun as a couple involves engaging in activities that both partners enjoy. It can range from outdoor adventures like hiking and camping to indoor activities like cooking, gaming, or watching movies. The key is to find common interests and explore new experiences together, ensuring quality time and enjoyment.

    Stories-on-Long-Distance-Relationships

    Final Thoughts 

    We hope these 100 things for couples to do together infuse a new energy in your relationship. Now that you have a 100 ways of spending quality time together, make it count. 

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  • Feeling Suffocated In A Relationship: Reasons, Signs, Ways To Deal

    Feeling Suffocated In A Relationship: Reasons, Signs, Ways To Deal

    Love that is suffocated by control and manipulation can never stand the test of time. You see, the moment you start feeling suffocated in a relationship, you know that you need to fix it or escape to save yourself. It feels as if all the positivity is being snuffed out and all that is left is bitterness.

    And how does one address such toxicity? Well, in this article, we’ve teamed up with California-based psychiatrist and cognitive behavior therapist Dr. Shefali Batra (MD in Psychiatry), who specializes in counseling for separation and divorce, breakup and dating, and premarital compatibility issues, to offer you some insights into this scenario. We will also offer some actionable tips to deal with suffocation in your relationship. 

    Why Do I Feel Suffocated In My Relationship?

    Remember the whirlwind romance of Ross and Rachel in Friends? Or the intense yet stifling relationship of Bella and Edward in Twilight? While these love stories might seem captivating on screen, they sometimes mirror the reality of feeling overwhelmed and caged in a relationship. 

    They also have another common theme: intense attachment in a relationship can quickly spiral into constricting and unhealthy dynamics. This is essentially why people end up feeling suffocated in relationships. Watch out if your partner is saying “I love you” too much in a relationship or constantly asking you for updates.

    Related Reading: 6 Steps To Take If You Are Feeling Trapped In A Relationship

    Explaining this phenomenon in greater detail, Dr. Batra says, “If you’ve ever found yourself longing for some breathing room or are feeling more like you’re living in a soap opera than a healthy partnership, you’re not alone. Recognizing the signs that you’re feeling suffocated in a relationship can be the first step toward regaining your independence and ensuring your relationship stays balanced.” 

    She lists the following factors that may be responsible for the suffocating feeling in the relationship:

    • A whole bunch of rules: Every relationship has some rules, but yours is doomed for failure if the rules don’t let you breathe. This will only leave you feeling smothered in a relationship
    • No compromise: Nobody is perfect. So, if you or your partner is unwilling to compromise on your expectations, with regard to finances, looks, or life goals, you are in for a caged feeling
    • Unrealistic relationship goals: If you or your partner have unrealistic expectations, such as going out to dinner every alternate day or having lavish foreign vacations twice or thrice a year, one of you will feel suffocated, if it doesn’t align with your life goals, A study on this topic proved how most couples have unrealistic expectations regarding sexual prowess and mind-reading 
    • Emotional abuse: Ever felt that every conversation turns into an argument or that every time you wish to talk about your feelings, you feel like walking on eggshells? In such cases, you’ll often be left telling yourself, “I feel suffocated in my relationship.”
    • Lack of space: When there’s no space in the relationship, it’s normal to feel stifled. A coworker, Andrew, made it a point to make his girlfriend, Casie, talk/spend time with him at the expense of her work and leisure. This is a classic case of lack of space, where she felt she was made to feel guilty for living her own life
    • Codependency: When partners are codependent (where one is a giver and the other is a taker), the giver tends to tolerate a lot more in the relationship than they normally would. This can create a sense of being trapped until they quit
    • Trust issues: If someone doesn’t trust their partner, it can create long-term issues in the relationship. For instance, a friend of mine, Andrea, recalled one of her ex-boyfriends calling her day in and day out just to check where she was and with whom. This eventually led to their breakup
    • Fear of commitment: The fear of commitment may lead a partner to feel suffocated in the relationship. So much so that even the very mention of commitment by the other partner can cause the person to drift apart or initiate a breakup

    15 Signs You Feel Suffocated In A Relationship

    So, what does feeling suffocated in a relationship look like? When exactly do you tell yourself, “I feel smothered in my relationship”? Explaining what a smothering relationship feels like, a Reddit user says, “Since he’s here 24/7, I basically don’t have down time alone anymore—something I’ve always valued A LOT, btw. I’m out all day and he’s not, so when I get home, he’s bored and wants to hang out together. Some days, I’m down for it. Some days, though, I just want to be with my videogames or my books, and while he “respects” it, he will often complain about how I’m not giving him enough attention.”

    Related Reading: 9 Expert Tips To Grow In A Relationship Every Day

    And this suffocation can lead to severe psychological ailments, such as depression or anxiety. It can also make you withdraw from your support system, such as your parents and friends. In order to address this issue, you need to have a clear idea of the signs of a smothering relationship. So, let’s delve into the key indicators that your relationship might be edging into suffocating territory. These 15 signs listed below will help you navigate your way back to a healthier dynamic:

    1. You have a clingy partner 

    If you’re wondering if you’re indeed feeling smothered in a relationship, check if you for this sign. Dr. Batra says, “A clingy partner in a relationship is bound to be your worst nightmare.” And most of such clinginess is associated with attachment styles, as an Attachment Project article clearly states. Here are some instances:

    • Expecting selflessness (but that in itself is a selfish trait)
    • Needing constant reassurance of your love
    • Texting/calling you throughout the day, and even expecting you to answer them in the middle of a busy schedule
    • Saying “I love you” too much in a relationship

    2. They don’t listen 

    A relationship can be a caged hell if your partner doesn’t ‘see’ you anymore. In fact, if your partner fails to listen to you or your concerns, it can have serious implications for your relationship. Dr. Batra points out a few such instances: 

    • They won’t listen to your concerns, and it’s all about what they like or do
    • They will disregard your emotional needs in a relationship and say you’re overreacting
    • They might miss out on important things you tell them such as picking your child from school or paying a bill on time

    Related Reading: Obsessive Love And Clingy Affairs – Early Signs And Dealing With It

    3. They aren’t respectful of your personal space

    Personal space is crucial to a healthy relationship. And without it, you may be left feeling smothered in a relationship. Dr. Batra says “A relationship can’t survive for long if either of the partners has no personal space.” Space in this context means:

    • The freedom to meet your friends
    • The liberty to attend hobby classes 
    • The freedom to go on solo trips to unwind
    • Spending a day apart from your partner, to pamper yourself at the spa
    • Some me-time to read or watch a Netflix show
    You can feel suffocated if your personal space isn’t being respected

    4. The feeling that you don’t have anything that is just yours

    Dr. Batra says, “The loss of identity that follows a toxic relationship is extremely detrimental to your relationship in the long run.” Here are some instances:

    • You have no hobbies since you got into the relationship
    • Your work schedules have gone haywire because you need to call them often
    • Your sleep schedule has been hampered because of late-night calls
    • You hardly call or spend time with your family
    • You haven’t met your friends in ages

    Related Reading: 11 Ways An Insecure Partner Drains A Relationship And 5 Ways To Fix It

    5. Time away from your partner is a welcome relief

    Dr. Batra says, “You know you’re with a toxic partner when you look forward to work as an escape from your love life.” My cousin, Janet, had a similar experience. 

    She lived with her boyfriend, who was very controlling. Janet would actually love the time apart from him that she spent at her workplace. She vented to her coworkers, saying “I feel suffocated in my relationship,” and got the emotional support she needed. She eventually broke up with him.

    6. You lie to your partner to get some space 

    Yes, lying is bad. But when you have to save yourself from emotional abuse or get some much-needed space in the relationship, white lies are perhaps justified. For instance:

    • You tell them you have an important late-night work call to attend, just to watch your favorite Netflix show
    • You lie to them, saying you are going on a work trip because they wouldn’t let you go on a trip with friends

    Related Reading: How To Leave A Toxic Relationship – Know From The Expert

    7. Your partner doesn’t like you spending time with others

    This is a huge red flag in a relationship. Dr. Batra explains, “When your partner doesn’t let you spend quality time with your friends or family, it smacks of jealousy, and you may often tell yourself, “I feel smothered in my relationship.” This isn’t healthy.” 

    This jealousy could be because you get a lot of attention from friends (especially from those of the opposite sex) or because you are more popular with people (be it friends or coworkers). For instance, one of my friends, Jake, hated the fact that his wife was jovial and outgoing. So much so that he literally pulled her out of events because he could not bear the fact that she was always the center of attention and enjoyed herself in such settings. 

    When your partner doesn’t let you spend quality time with your friends or family, it smacks of jealousy…

    – Dr. Batra

    8. Your partner tries to control you

    Are you often left telling yourself, “I feel smothered in my relationship”? It could be because your partner tries to control your life, which is a massive red flag. Dr. Batra says, “Control can manifest in many ways between couples.” Some instances are:

    • They control what you wear
    • They control your time, demanding you spend most of your time catering to them (cooking for them, traveling with them, etc.)
    • They control how you spend money by stopping you from investing in things you like
    • They gaslight you into believing you’re going insane
    • They manipulate you into living according to their whims

    Related Reading: Empath Vs Narcissist – The Toxic Relationship Between An Empath And A Narcissist

    9. There’s pressure to conform

    Dr. Batra says, “You’ll know you’re in a suffocating relationship when you feel scared to share your thoughts with them.” There is pressure to conform to their thoughts, ideas, and beliefs, which leaves you walking on eggshells around your partner. That’s because you know anything you say that doesn’t align with that can start an argument. This can manifest in the pressure to conform to their:

    • Political views
    • Beauty ideals
    • Food habits
    • Personality 
    smothering relationship
    The pressure to conform to their demands and ways can make you feel suffocated

    10. They feel entitled to know everything about you

    Yes, it’s natural for partners to want to know things about each other. But Dr. Batra advises, “There should be some healthy boundaries with regard to how much you tell them.” 

    For instance, my friend, Chris, once dated a girl who would call him up at odd hours just to check what he was up to and ask him questions to verify whether he was actually where he was claiming to be. This not only smacks of control but also of distrust and is a strict no-no. He would often confide in me, saying, “I feel suffocated in my relationship but don’t know how to come out of it.”

    Related Reading: 11 Relationship Arguments That Spell Doom For Your Bond

    11. You feel paranoid that they’re always watching you

    This is a scary feeling. When you have a controlling partner who makes you suffocate, you will feel as if they always have their eyes on you. Here are a few examples of the kind of behavior that can evoke such feelings in a person:

    • They might always be watching your story or commenting on/liking your Instagram stories/posts and asking you to remove certain posts because they didn’t go down well with them
    • They might check your bank notifications to control how you spend
    • They may check your browser history
    • They may also ask you for passwords and check your phone

    12. You feel emotionally exhausted after talking to them

    Dr. Batra says, “You can be sure that you’re in a suffocating relationship if the conversations that you have with your SO leave you drained.” Now, these could be any of the following:

    • Conversations where you have to constantly reassure them about your commitment to them
    • Conversations about the intricate details of what you did the entire day, including whom you’ve met
    • Conversations about some past fight you two had

    Related Reading: 6 Types Of Emotional Manipulation And Expert Tips To Recognize Them

    13. They invite you to events you don’t want to go to

    Dr. Batra thinks this can destroy your mental peace to a great extent. She says, “Obligatory participation in activities you don’t feel like doing or events you don’t feel like attending can cause you to lose your cool. And this is a strict no-no in a healthy relationship.” So, look out for the following signs:

    • They want you to accompany you to a family event even if you’re not comfortable with the way a particular family member is sarcastic toward you
    • They want you to attend parties knowing that you don’t like going to noisy places

    14. You’re walking on eggshells 

    A sign of smothering love is that you find yourself caught in an endless loop of arguments—all day, every day. Ever felt that any conversation that you have with your partner turns into an argument? Dr. Batra says, “If you feel that you can’t express your thoughts or needs without it turning into a heated debate that ends with threats or, worse still, the silent treatment, you’re walking on eggshells and need to save yourself.” Here are a few instances:

    • Your partner threatens you with a breakup every time you have an argument
    • Your spouse talks about divorce every time you fight
    • They stop talking for days when you get too emotional or cry

    Related Reading: 9 Signs Of Lack Of Empathy In Relationships And 6 Ways To Cope With It

    15. You don’t take care of yourself anymore

    Has your relationship changed the way you perceive yourself? Have you given up on self-care and small feel-good indulgences since you got together with your partner? When was the last time you got a haircut or bought a nice shirt for yourself? When did you last invest in yourself? If you have forgotten to take care of yourself since you’ve started talking to or dating your SO, you know that you’re probably too stressed to invest in your health, looks, or hygiene. 

    Here’s what this situation can look like, according to a Reddit user’s first-hand account: “I’m on medication for depression/anxiety, but sometimes I feel like the sheer amount of effort it takes to feed myself, drink water, take my meds, go outside/exercise, etc is too much. I know lots of people who do all of that + more, but I don’t understand how. I’ve even started to resent myself for needing to do things like eat on time, sleep, hydrate.”

    Emotional Manipulation In Relationship

    How To Fix A Smothering Relationship — 9 Therapist-Recommended Tips

    So, are you wondering how to fix a smothered relationship? Dr. Batra says, “Navigating smothering love can feel tough. It’s like being caught in an endless loop.” So, let’s explore how to rediscover your individuality and restore balance without losing sight of what drew you to your partner in the first place. Here are 9 tips from Dr. Batra that will help you fix your suffocating relationship:

    1. Setting boundaries 

    Do set boundaries and expectations that are realistic. And make no allowances. For instance:

    • Set rules regarding interactions with friends. Make it clear that you are free to spend some weekends with friends and family.
    • Set rules about them not commenting on your clothes, looks, career, etc.
    • Tell them you will not tolerate disrespect or crude jokes/sarcasm

    Related Reading: 12 Warning Signs Of Gaslighting And 5 Ways To Deal With It

    2. Ask them to respect your privacy

    Dr. Batra says, “You should be able to keep some things to yourself.” A relationship doesn’t necessarily give your partner the right to ask you about every detail of your life. For instance:

    • They shouldn’t be bothered about your work interactions unless you tell them about your job 
    • They shouldn’t nag you to tell them about your friends
    • Asking you to delete/block your coworkers or friends because they don’t like them is also a strict no-no

    Navigating smothering love can feel tough. It’s like being caught in an endless loop.

    – Dr. Batra

    3. Take out some time just for yourself everyday

    If you’re still clueless about how to fix a smothered relationship, this may be your go-to solution. A Harvard Business Review article talks about how important ‘me time’ is to people. In fact, ‘me time’ is absolutely crucial to maintain an identity. So, make sure you keep at least an hour to yourself every day. This time could be spent in:

    • Exercising
    • Reading
    • Gardening
    • Watching your favorite shows

    Related Reading: Understanding The Dynamics Of Abuse In A Relationship

    4. Find out what you like to do for yourself in your personal time

    If you think you’ve lost yourself trying to be in the relationship, try and focus on activities that you loved doing before you got into the relationship. For instance:

    • Go on a trip with your friends if you loved to travel but haven’t been able to do so lately
    • Spend some time exploring old hobbies, such as music, pottery, or drama
    • Try something that you’ve never tried before, such as dance or Zumba 

    5. Encourage your partner to also take some time for themselves 

    To get healthy balance back into your relationship, you also need to make sure your partner stops being obsessed with you. And to that end, you can let them know how to stop loving someone too much, and this is how you can do so:

    • Encourage them to go for trips with friends
    • Ask them to invite their friends for house parties
    • Ask them to invest in their hobbies

    Related Reading: How To Cope When Your Partner Is A Control Freak

    6. Communicate about their behavior and how it bothers you

    Nobody can deny the fact that open communication is key in relationships. Dr. Batra suggests “talking it out with your partner.” This is, by far, the best solution to let them know what is bothering you. 

    Communicate often when you’re feeling suffocated in a relationship and let them know how you wish them to fix the situation too. Also give your partner a low-down on how to stop loving someone too much, so that they can focus on their own life.

    7. Ask yourself about the future

    Dr. Batra says, “Once in a while, it’s important to ask yourself where you see this going and discuss the future with your partner.” A relationship has a future only if you see a future in it. Remember, it takes two to tango. So, you can’t leave your partner out of the plan. Discuss if staying in the relationship is worth it and move ahead accordingly.

    Related Reading: 15 Signs You Need a Break From Relationship

    8. Rekindle your romance

    It’s very important to jazz up your love life by rekindling your romance. And how do you go about it? A Gottman Institute article talks about a few ways to do so. Additionally, here are some more tips:

    • Plan some fun activities that both of you enjoy, such as adventure treks or karaoke
    • You can even engage in simple activities, such as cooking together or decorating the home together
    • Plan a date at home, replete with a candle-lit dinner, some music, wine, and slow dance
    • Invest in good hygiene products and/or fancy lingerie and have some fun between the sheets

    9. Focus on self-awareness

    Dr. Batra suggests, “Examine if there is anything you could have done that you need to work on, which might have contributed to the problems in your relationship.” So, think if:

    • You could’ve been oversharing on social media and should put a hold on it
    • You could’ve spent more time with your partner to make them feel secure when you’re out with friends
    • You could’ve been more friendly with your partner’s family and friends to make them feel positive

    Key Pointers

    • Feeling suffocated in a relationship is an indicator of toxicity
    • A person can feel suffocated in a relationship if they have a clingy partner, they have pressure to conform, they are not listened to, they’re walking on eggshells, etc.
    • Some ways to fix this situation are: to focus on self-awareness, communicate, set boundaries, etc.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What does it mean when you feel suffocated in a relationship?

    When you’re suffocated in a relationship, you may feel you have lost yourself, that you’re always walking on eggshells, and that you have no voice in the relationship. You may also feel that there are too many rules and that you don’t have any ‘me time’.

    2. Is it normal to feel suffocated in a relationship?

    Feeling suffocated in a relationship may be a common phenomenon but can definitely not be termed normal. It robs you of your peace and individuality and often leads to far-reaching psychological consequences.

    Final Thoughts

    Relationships are supposed to bring peace and positivity. They’re meant to help you become a better person and to grow. But when such relationships become cages that stifle you and take your freedom away from you, it becomes necessary to address the core issues behind such a situation. 

    We hope our article helped you ascertain the causes of such suffocating relationships. And we hope you can address the issues at hand whenever you’re feeling suffocated in a relationship.

    Infographic On Signs Of Suffocation In Relationships And Ways Of Dealing With It

    Signs Of Suffocation In Relationships And Ways Of Dealing With It
    Signs of suffocation in relationships and ways of dealing with

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  • Why Is Dating So Hard? 10 Reasons And How To Deal With Them

    Why Is Dating So Hard? 10 Reasons And How To Deal With Them

    A TIME article says, “Modern dating means learning how to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.” And very rightly so. But why is dating so hard nowadays? The answer may lie in the way we approach dating: a never-ending swiping game, followed by a performance of flaky conversations, and then a ‘your place or mine’ scenario. Repeat this cycle long enough, and it’s no wonder that dating begins to seem like yet another dreary chore on your to-do list.

    The question is, how did we get here? In this article, we will delve deeper into the issues with modern dating. With valuable insights from relationship counselor Dhriti Bhavsar (M.Sc, Clinical Psychology), who specializes in relationship, breakup, and LGBTQ counseling, let’s explore why more and more people feel that online dating sucks and unearth ways to tackle the issue.

    10 Reasons Why Dating Is So Hard

    Are you tired of swiping left and right every day? Do you feel you have no luck with online dating? Asking yourself over and over again, “Why is online dating so hard?” According to a 2022 study in the US, 4 in 5 respondents said they felt emotional fatigue while dating online. And add to it the uncertainty, the lack of emotions, the trend of dating multiple people at the same time that accompanies modern dating, and we have a recipe for disaster. This is why dating is so hard these days.

    Related Reading: The Complexities Of Modern Dating And How To Navigate Them: A Complete Guide

    Mark Manson, the New York Times bestselling author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, says, “Unlike playing the piano or learning a language, our dating and sex lives are inextricably bound to our emotional needs, and when we get into potentially intimate or sexual situations, these experiences rub up against our prior traumas causing us anxiety, neuroticism, stress and pain.” This aptly answers the question, why is dating so tough?

    To explore the emotional toll of being caught in the loop of fickle connections in greater detail, let’s take a look at 10 reasons why dating is so tough: 

    1. It’s a performance

    Unless it’s completely organic (such as your SO finding you in the college library or a café and pursuing you for days), dating can seem like a performance. Dhriti says, “This is because you know everything you say or do is being evaluated. It’s nerve wracking.” 

    Explaining why she is exhausted with dating, Alice, a 28-year-old HR professional, says, “It feels like an act and seems I will be boo-ed if I fail. It’s quite a task to deck up in your best clothes and go and show your best self, when you know that you’re actually hiding your flaws, which will show at some point or the other. Online dating sucks.”

    2. The high effort–low expectation scenario

    Why is online dating so hard these days? You see, dating, at least in its early stages, requires a lot of effort. People spend a lot of time getting to know each other, calling or texting each other, scoring through each other’s social media profiles, only to be faced with uncertainty about where the connection is headed. 

    Dhriti says, “In the present-day scenario, it’s pretty common for people to be seeing multiple people. It can get exhausting to care about what person no’ 3’s favorite color is, after a while.” You may also find yourself worrying about the fate of the relationship once you realize the person you’re dating is seeing other people. It causes unnecessary mental strain.

    Related Reading: Online Dating Advice – 23 Important Tips

    3. It can drain you of your energy

    Dating in this era is hard because with the various ways to get in touch with our dates (texts, video calls, voice notes, etc.), you may become overwhelmed soon enough. With the demands of your hectic job, you may miss a pre-scheduled late-night call or end up having to cancel a date, and in the process, offend them. Making up again takes a lot of energy and effort. And this loop seems never-ending.

    Dhriti explains, “Our lifestyles are already very demanding. Plus, the added pressure to be in touch all the time may get in the way of us dating how we would actually enjoy doing it. Often, even if you have the time for a date, you just don’t have the energy.”

    Dating is hard these days because it has become a performance of sorts

    4. The trend of hook-ups and short-lived relationships

    The transient nature of relationships is one of the answers to the question, “Why is online dating so hard?” In this age of multiple options available at the click of a button, the next match is a swipe away and commitment is hard to come by. 

    Our attention spans are getting shorter, and that’s what is making most of us get into short-lived dating arrangements for satiating our immediate needs. People are increasingly choosing hook-ups and no-strings-attached relationships to fill the void of a partner or because committing to someone takes a lot of effort.

    Dhriti explains, “People’s views toward commitment and relationships have shifted. Most people now shy away from labels, which adds another layer of complexity to the mix.”

    Related Reading: Dating Is Easier, Don’t Get Married

    5. Unrealistic expectations

    Why is dating so hard, you ask? Simply because our expectations are sky-high. Social media has made us believe that relationships are just glossy reels, where people are dining at high-end restaurants or vacationing at exotic places. So, anything that falls short of our high-flying and unrealistic expectation becomes annoying and we aren’t ready to adjust.

    Dhriti says, “We seem too eager to call anything we don’t like in someone a red flag. I once heard someone say “He wore chinos to our date and that’s a red flag”. Now, this is ridiculous. It’s perfectly fine to have preferences, but sometimes, we don’t just leave it at that. We seem to have created this whole unachievable idea of the perfect person.”

    6. Fear of rejection

    Be it due to some past trauma or some unhealed psychological issue, many people are too scared of being rejected in relationships. So, they end up dating half-heartedly till they decide to abruptly ghost or leave the person they had been dating. A 2023 study proved that rejection sensitivity makes people suffer from “lower levels of relationship satisfaction and relationship closeness.” 

    In the present-day scenario, it’s pretty common for people to be seeing multiple people. It can get exhausting to care about what person no’ 3’s favorite color is, after a while.

    – Dhriti Bhavsar

    This makes them indulge in risky sexual behavior without getting into the complexities of relationships. Dhriti explains, “Dating now is weird as it is, with all its complexities. The fear of rejection can make things all the more complicated.” 

    Talking about fear of rejection and its impact on dating life, a Reddit user says, “I’m a 27M and I’ve been single for almost 2 years now. After a 3-year relationship, for about a year I’ve been trying to get into the online dating scene. In that time I’ve had very little luck with getting matches or even maintaining a conversation when I do get a match. I’ve considered trying to flirt with women I find remotely interesting/attractive IRL though I lack the confidence and don’t want to come off as creepy and make someone uncomfortable.”

    Related Reading: 15 Tips To Identify When You Are Connecting With Someone

    7. Trust issues

    One of the answers to the question, why is dating so hard?, is that people can’t trust each other. Dhriti says, “If you’re carrying baggage from past relationships, such as difficulty in trusting someone, you’re perhaps not completely over your ex. This is going to make your dating life even more difficult.” Here’s how:

    • You may end up suspecting them when they are out with their friends 
    • You may become too clingy, calling and texting them out of the blue throughout the day
    • You may imagine the worst case scenario when they forget to text or call due to some reason
    no luck with online dating
    Trust issues can ruin your dating experience

    8. Compatibility

    The concept of compatibility seems to have turned into a joke on dating apps. People have weird definitions of compatibility, and sometimes, those definitions can be plain frivolous.

    You don’t know a thing about anime? Haven’t watched a single episode of Game of Thrones? Well, chances are you are being judged and rejected right at the onset. Dhriti says, “Finding compatibility is difficult, especially considering that a lot of people go into dating defensive, not open to change.” 

    My cousin, Andrea, had a similar experience. She was told by her date that they weren’t compatible simply because she was vegan and her date was non-vegetarian. “Dating sites are useless. It was so painful to be rejected right at the onset for something so trivial. What do people even want these days? Why is online dating so hard?,” she wondered.

    Related Reading: How To Find The One: 13 Tried and Tested Tips

    9. Reluctance to invest emotionally

    Dhriti says, “It is possible that some people are too tired, burnt out, or jaded for any sort of emotional investment. It’s important to check in with yourself emotionally before you jump into the dating pool.”

    Linda, a 25-year-old hairstylist, was over the moon when she found a whirlwind romance with a guy she connected with on a dating app. “We were both emotionally invested within just a couple of months of dating, or so it seemed. He called and texted throughout the day. He would sing to me and plan lovely dates.” Then, one fine day, he suddenly told her he didn’t wish to take the relationship forward.

    Linda was shattered. It took her a couple of months to heal from this absolutely unexpected heartbreak and she has now vowed never to get emotionally attached to an online date so soon again.

    10. Afraid of being vulnerable

    Why is online dating so hard? Another explanation for this quandary is that people find it difficult to show their vulnerable side. Being vulnerable means showing your softer side, letting the other person see your fears and insecurities, opening up about past trauma, telling them secrets that nobody else knows. It can be hard to open up to someone this way when you’re interacting with a complete stranger via a screen and have no way of knowing what they’re really like. 

    Your guard can get raised higher and becomes more impregnable with every bad experience in the online dating world. Dhriti says, “Some people are just scared to open up or be vulnerable. Getting to know someone is a two-way street, and if you resist their attempts at getting to know you, dating is going to feel like a battlefield. In such cases, you need to encourage your date to be vulnerable.”

    How To Overcome Dating Challenges

    Now that we’ve addressed the question, why is dating so hard in the present times?, let’s also understand what can be done to overcome these challenges and find a way to navigate the dating world successfully. 

    Explaining how decided to handle the challenges of dating, a Reddit user says, “I’ve decided to take a break from dating apps, focus on talking to one person at a time, not play games with them, and be my fully flawed, authentic self from the start.”

    Related Reading: 20 Valuable Tips For A First Date After Meeting Online

    We agree that being yourself can help you deal with a lot of issues that plague modern dating. However, it’s not always easy to break the mold you’ve cast yourself in and embrace authenticity. A lot of people may even struggle to ascertain what their authentic self entails. To help you tide over this stumbling block, Dhriti offers 5 actionable tips on overcoming dating challenges in the modern times:

    1. Know yourself

    Before you put yourself out there in the dating world, be in touch with yourself and understand what you seek from this experience. Once you do that, it becomes easier to deal with dating challenges. Dhriti recommends the following ways to know and understand yourself better:

    • Check in with yourself and see how you’re doing emotionally
    • Have clear answers to why you want to date. Is it for sexual gratification or something long-term and meaningful?
    • Understand that no reason is too shallow or invalid. It’s okay to explore the world of online dating just because you’re curious

    2. Don’t take rejections personally

    Ever felt that dating sites are useless because people are not accountable for their actions on such apps? After all, we’ve all been victims of ghosting. While there is no doubt that rejections can be tough, they are also par for the course in your dating journey. So, how should you deal with it? Dhriti advises, “Don’t let rejections bog you down. Just the way you don’t like everyone you connect with on a dating app, everyone isn’t going to like you, and that’s okay.”

    Below are some ways to handle rejection better:

    • Focus on yourself: Take the rejection as a sign that you two weren’t meant for the long run
    • Cut contact if that makes you feel better: Often, texting/talking to prospective matches even after they’ve rejected you can prevent you from moving on
    • Deal with ghosting maturely: If you’ve been ghosted, respond to it maturely and think of it this way: it reflects on their inability to be frank with you and shows that they lack basic dating etiquette

    Related Reading: 13 Tips To Date Online Successfully And Find Your Ideal Partner

    3. Plan fun and unconventional dates

    Dhriti says, “Plan dates that you would actually enjoy, not just your typical dinners and coffee dates. While those can be fun as well, picking an activity you and the person you’re interested in enjoy, it’ll make bonding with them easier.” Here are some amazing date ideas:

    • A stargazing date at a campsite
    • A hiking date
    • A day at the bookstore, discussing your favorite books and buying some

    Just the way you don’t like everyone you connect with on a dating app, everyone isn’t going to like you, and that’s okay.

    – Dhriti Bhavsar

    4. Be genuine

    Dhriti says, “Dating now is like theater. The entire performative circus around dating is often its most exhausting part.” The simplest way to deal with this is to break away from the trend of putting on a performance and instead be genuine. There is, anyway, no point in pretending to be someone you’re not. Sooner or later, your real self will shine through, and if it doesn’t align with the other person’s idea of a partner, you will set yourself—and them—for yet another disappointing outcome. And you’ll be left lamenting, “Online dating sucks”.

    Related Reading: The Ultimate Funny Online Dating Questions

    5. Be open-minded

    Dhriti says, “Not every date or every person you meet is going to ‘wow’ you. Dating is supposed to be a slow process and you need to, at times, just enjoy the process. It can be inherently fun to de-puzzle another person, while they try to de-puzzle you.” She suggests the following tips:

    • Be optimistic
    • Keep an open mind
    • Let loose and enjoy the low-commitment period

    Infographic On How To Keep Your Dating Life Alive And Kicking

    So now that we have offered a detailed low-down on how to deal with the challenges of modern dating, let’s look at a few examples of how to keep your dating life full of fun. Here we go:

    How To Keep Your Dating Life Alive And Kicking
    How to keep your dating life alive and kicking

    Frequently Asked Questions:

    1. Will I ever find love? 

    Of course, you will, even if you feel you have had no luck with online dating so far. Don’t make finding love your agenda. Meet people online and offline, have fun, enjoy your time together, and then decide if you should take things forward.

    2. Is dating meant to be hard?

    No, dating the right person would feel easy. You will feel calm and protected. However, dating these days almost always comes with its set of challenges, because of our busy lifestyle, past baggage, and endless options. This is why dating is so tough in the present times.

    Key Pointers

    • Dating today is nothing short of a task. And it can be extremely tough for some
    • Why is dating so hard these days? Some of the major challenges of modern dating are: its high effort–low expectation scenario, the fact that people date multiple people at the same time these days, trust issues, and unrealistic expectations
    • Some ways in which you can improve your dating life are: by knowing yourself, by being open-minded, and by not taking rejections personally

    Final Thoughts

    We hope you have all the answers to “Why is dating so hard these days?” We also hope you will now be able to address the challenges of dating with ease. Yes, dating isn’t what it used to be a decade back. It’s not all about flowers and cozy dinners. 

    Dating today takes guts. And yes, online dating sucks at times, with all its uncertainties. But we hope you find the right partner soon with all our tips in this article. Just be real and guarded at the same time. But don’t forget to enjoy yourself! We wish you the best.

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  • 20 Signs of True Love From A Man

    20 Signs of True Love From A Man

    Evangelist David Wilkerson once said, “Love is not only something you feel, it is something you do.” And we agree. Men in love convey more through their actions than their words. In these subtle acts of thoughtfulness, care, and affection lie the signs of true love from a man. 

    When a man is in love, you may find him obsessed with you, calling and texting you every day, singing to you, and bringing you flowers. Men in love are unreasonable creatures, driven by emotions.

    In this article, we’ll not just give you detailed insights into the real meaning of true love, but we’ll also unearth 20 signs of true love from your guy, with help from California-based senior psychiatrist and mindfulness-based relationship consultant Dr. Shefali Batra (MD in Psychiatry), who specializes in counseling for separation and divorce, breakup and dating, and premarital compatibility issues.

    What Is True Love In Relationships?

    Have you ever wondered what true love is? Are you still searching for a man who will love you unconditionally? Before we get on to the signs of true love from a man, let’s find out what ‘true love’ means in relationships.

    Dr. Batra says, “True love in relationships is like finding that perfect balance between chaos and harmony, where you accept each other’s quirks and idiosyncrasies with a smile, even when they drive you crazy.”

    Related Reading: 10 Examples Of Unconditional Love

    “You know you’ve found true love when you can have entire conversations in monosyllables and still understand each other perfectly.” She cites this example: you’re both exhausted after a long day, and the dialogue goes something like this:

    • “Hungry?”
    • “Yeah.”
    • “Pizza?”
    • “Sure.”
    • “Large?”
    • “Obviously.”

    Sounds familiar? Well, perhaps you and your boo are in deep love already. Here are some more insights on true love:

    When you find yourself laughing at inside jokes that make no sense to anyone else or embrace your partner’s weird habits as if they’re your own, you know you’ve found true love.

    – Dr. Batra

    • You know you’re in true love when you’ve reached a level of telepathic communication that is beyond words
    • Love at first sight is mostly never true love. It takes time and effort
    • It’s when you cater to your partner’s needs effortlessly
    • When you’re in true love, you support each other’s dreams, no matter how unachievable they may seem

    Dr. Batra explains, “When you find yourself laughing at inside jokes that make no sense to anyone else or embrace your partner’s weird habits as if they’re your own, you know you’ve found true love. It’s messy, hilarious, and utterly perfect in its imperfection. True love means celebrating the quirks, the unexpected moments, and the delightful absurdities that come with being together.” 

    How Do You Know When Love Is Real?

    So, how do you know when love is real? Dr. Batra says, “Real love might not always be glamorous, but if you’re laughing together, supporting each other, sharing both the fun and tedious parts of life, and envisioning yourself with your partner in rocking chairs when you’re old and gray, you’re probably in it for the long haul.”

    Related Reading: 11 Things To Describe True Feelings Of Love

    She points out a few ways in which you can be sure that love is real:

    • Trust: Real love involves trust and generosity. And this generosity extends to doing more than expected for your partner
    • More “We” than “I”: When you’re in real love, you’ll end up using “we” instead of “I” more often. The “we” translates to a unit and that leads to deeper experiences and more authentic love. For instance, when you say “We are getting a dog,” in spite of the fact it’s your partner who loves dogs and is getting one, you know the love you share is real
    • Doing chores together: Real love is when you do chores together. When you’re navigating mundane tasks together, it’s a sign that the love is real
    • Making your partner feel comfortable: If you genuinely care about their well-being, even when you have to go the extra mile to make sure they’re fine, it’s a big indicator that the love is real. Picture this: you’re cozy in bed at 3 AM, and they need a glass of water. Real love means you get up and fetch it, even if it means leaving your warm bed in the middle of the night

    20 Signs Of True Love From A Man

    True love is a subjective and elusive term. When we speak of true love, it could have different connotations for different people. For some women, the signs of true love from a man could include the amount of time he spends with her, while for others, true love could mean the emotional support they receive from their boyfriends or husbands.

    Related Reading: Love In The Time Of Hook-Up Culture

    Well, it definitely isn’t as simple as it sounds. Even scientists have been baffled by this concept and there have been studies to unearth the meaning of true love. But what is true love in a relationship, really? Are you unsure whether your boyfriend or husband loves you for real? Dr. Batra says, “True love is often found in the little things and heartfelt gestures.” She enlists 20 telling signs that show he’s truly fallen for you: 

    1. He remembers the small things

    One of the true love signs from a man is when he remembers the tiniest details about you. For instance, my friend Linda once told me how she knew nobody could love her more than her boyfriend. She said, “I didn’t even remember I had told him I have a salon appointment this Thursday. So, I was taken aback when he said, “So, make sure you get your nails done pretty, honey!,” at breakfast that day. I was like, OMG! Are you kidding me?”

    Dr. Batra mentions a similar case she once came across. “There was one lady who once mentioned she loves penguins, and her boyfriend made sure she had a whole collection of penguin-themed socks on her birthday.”

    It’s true love when he remembers your favorite genre of books

    2 He makes time for you

    This is what Dr. Batra says is a big giveaway that his love is true. So, imagine the following scenarios:

    • He prefers spending quality time with you, watching rom-coms with you when you’re on your period, even if that means skipping the big game that’s on this Friday
    • He takes a day off from work to be with you just because you are going through a tough time at work yourself and need a day to get things back together

    These are some of the clear true love signs from a man.

    Related Reading: 25 Body Language Signs A Man Is In Love With You

    3. He listens to you

    Dr. Batra explains, “And this isn’t just the “uh-huh” kind of listening, but he actually remembers your friend’s cat’s name.”

    Well, men who listen are gems. In fact, a study has proven what women have been complaining about for a long time. It stated: “…men only listen with half their brain, while women use both sides.” But if, in spite of that, you find a man who listens to you attentively, you have real love, my girl!

    4. He supports your dreams

    This one’s a no-brainer. A man loves you for real if he supports your dreams. Dr. Batra says, “Whether you want to start a goat farm or become a professional bubble wrap popper, if you find your man cheering you on, you know his love is real.”

    Shannon, an investment banker from New York, had this dream of launching a café. Now, she and her husband were both hustlers who made a decent living in New York. But her supportive husband decided to not just financially support her dream but also encouraged her to quit her job and chase her dreams instead. She launched her dream café last year and couldn’t stop gushing with joy. “I am delighted and know for sure I’ve made the right decision when it comes to marriage,” she said.

    Related Reading: What Are The 13 Biggest Turn-Ons For Guys?

    5. He’s your biggest fan

    Are you embarrassingly loud at your family’s karaoke night? And you still find him rooting for you? Well, Dr. Batra says he’s a keeper. 

    You know a man is in love when he’s your biggest fan in whatever you do. So, here are some more examples:

    • You’ve started your weight-loss journey and decide to update it on a daily basis on your social media. Your boyfriend is the first one to ‘like’ the posts and comment “That’s my girl.” Well, you sure have a keeper
    • You join a dance workshop and manage to complete a dance number, fumbling and with amateur steps. And he still cheers you on as if you’re the star of the show. He’s your biggest fan and loves you truly

    Whether you want to start a goat farm or become a professional bubble wrap popper, if you find your man cheering you on, you know his love is real.

    – Dr. Batra

    6. He makes you laugh

    Dr. Batra says, “You know your man loves you truly when even on your worst days, he knows how to make you laugh, even if it comes at the cost of his own smile.”

    Here are some examples:

    • You’ve had a rough time at a presentation at work, but he tries to make a fool of himself with some silly joke just to make you smile
    • You have made a mess of a dish while trying to experiment with your cooking skills, but he says something like, “That’s my Columbus of cookery. Exploring cooking like a pro” and has the dish with a smile on his face
    • You’ve had a rough day at work and he comes home and arranges a candle-lit dinner for just the two of you, just to get a smile on your face

    Related Reading: 11 Surprising Examples Of Flirting That Say Someone’s Into You

    7. He’s protective, not possessive

    Dr. Batra explains this one: “There’s a difference between “Did you get home safe?” and “Why were you talking to him?” So, make sure your man is protective but not possessive.”

    Here’s how a Reddit user explains what protectiveness means for him as a man: “Humans are strange animals. And we all have a bit of caveman in us telling us to provide for our mates, our families, our tribes. And that’s the truest measure of us. It’s hard to overcome.”

    8. He compromises

    Compromises show how deep your bond is. While we’re not saying you or your partner should compromise to an extent where you lose yourselves or your identity, a certain level of compromise needs to be achieved if you need the relationship to work. 

    Dr. Batra says, “Pizza toppings, movie choices, you name it. If he’s willing to meet you halfway even in the little things in life, you know you have a man who loves you.”

    Related Reading: 21 Signs That A Man Is Pursuing You

    9. He shows affection

    At times, love should be expressed through affection, and we’re not just talking about physical affection here. Dr. Batra explains, “PDA may not be his thing, but if he always finds ways to show he cares, like slipping a love note in your lunch box, you know it’s one of the signs of true love from a guy.”

    Here are some more ways that a man can show he cares:

    • Gifting you a book by your favorite author
    • Bringing you a care package with your favorite chocolate when you’re on your period
    • Cooking noodles for you just because you love Chinese cuisine

    10. He’s honest

    Often, love isn’t just about appeasing the other person. True love lies in being honest with your partner. Dr. Batra says, “Even if it means telling you your new haircut is, well, interesting, honesty matters a lot in true relationships.”

    Here are a few such examples:

    • You ask him how you’re looking in a red dress, and he tells you that you look better in black
    • You ask him what your negative traits are, and he doesn’t shy away from saying that you seem a bit self-obsessed with all the selfies you keep posting on Instagram

    Related Reading: When Your Partner Loves You More Than You Love Them

    11. He respects your space

    Dr. Batra says, “If he knows you need your “me time” and doesn’t take it personally, you know the love is real.” In fact, when a man loves a woman, he wouldn’t have a problem nurturing space in the relationship. For example:

    • You couldn’t receive his call when you were at the salon. He doesn’t throw a fit when you call him back an hour later
    • You’re out with your friends and tell him you’ll be late. Instead of getting angry, he tells you when he can pick you up
    • You’re venturing on a solo trip to Bali, and instead of getting insecure, he helps you pack your suitcase
    what is true love in a relationship
    True love is when he considers you as part of his future

    12. He includes you in his future

    Does he often talk about the future with you? Does he ask you about your future plans too? Dr. Batra says, “When a man loves a woman, she’s not just in his present, she’s a part of his 5-year plan.” And we agree. 

    Here are a few instances:

    • He tells you he wishes to travel to certain countries with you in the next couple of years and asks your opinion on it
    • He lets you know he wishes to launch a burger brand in the next 2 years and asks you about your career plans too
    • He asks you questions such as if you like kids and tells you he has plans of having a kid within a couple of years of marriage

    Related Reading: 23 Clear Signs He Sees You Long-Term And Is Truly Committed

    13. He values your opinion

    Dr. Batra says, “One of the signs of true love from a guy is when he seeks your advice, whether it’s about his new shoes or his career decisions.” 

    And here’s how:

    • He asks you whether he should move cities to pursue a new job
    • He asks you whether he should invest in a start-up in a year from now
    • He asks you if he should buy a car or invest his savings in a trust fund

    14. He’s there in tough times

    What is true love in a relationship? Dr. Batra explains, “Well, how he treats you is how he feels about you. Sick days, bad days, cramp days, you-name-it days, and he’s your rock. That’s when you know he’s falling in love with you.” 

    But this is a little tricky and you may have to stick with the person for a while to find out if he’s actually willing to be with you in tough times. 

    Related Reading: 13 Sure-Shot Signs A Casual Relationship Is Getting Serious

    15. He’s proud of you

    Dr. Batra says, “You know a man is falling in love with you when he starts showing he’s proud of you, and not just when you achieve something big. Even your small wins are celebrated. For example, he will feel your first DIY project of making a pen holder warrants a cupcake.”

    Here’s how a Reddit user narrates how her dad still shows her mom he’s proud of her: “My dad’s office is filled with my mom’s pictures.” She adds, “He’s “that” guy at work and everybody loves it. After 25 years of marriage, he still brings my mom flowers and takes her out on spontaneous dates.”

    16. He’s patient

    Well, patience is a virtue, not just in men. Dr. Batra says, “One of the signs a man is in love with you is when he’s patient in the relationship.” Here are some examples:

    • You’re taking forever to get ready. And while he’s not asking “Are you ready yet?” every now and then, he’s there, waiting for you. And when he sees you, it’s with a smile
    • He waits for you to finish your work and get on a call with him, no matter how late it is. He doesn’t get angry or throw tantrums

    Related Reading: 18 Early Dating Signs He Likes You

    17. He surprises you

    Surprises work wonders when it comes to relationships. Even a study has proven that humans, in general, love the idea of surprises.

    Dr. Batra says, “If you keep asking yourself, “Does he love me?”, watch out for this sign. Does he surprise you often? And we’re not talking about surprises on birthdays. We’re talking about random Tuesday chocolates. Well, this is one of the clear signs a man is in love.”

    18. He shares his world with you

    How do you know when love is real? Well, it’s when your man shares every little thing with you. Dr. Batra explains, “His friends, his hobbies, his collection of vintage coins – it’s all open to you. That’s one of the true love signs from a man.”

    Picture the following scenarios:

    • He reveals his deepest insecurities and fears. He tells you he’s scared of heights and of cockroaches. For a man to own up to his fears is a new level of intimacy
    • He answers all your deep questions and tells you about the worst things that have happened in his life, such as the one time he was molested by a teacher
    • He tells you what his ex-girlfriends were like and why he broke up with them

    Related Reading: 30 Ways To Know If A Guy Secretly Loves You, But Is Too Shy To Admit It

    19. He adapts

    What is true love in a relationship? These days, it’s not unusual to find couples who are from different cultural backgrounds or have different mother tongues. It’s also quite normal to have a life partner that is from a different professional background. You may also be totally opposite personalities. But one of the true love signs from a man is when he is ready to look past the differences and is willing to adapt to be with you. 

    Dr. Batra points out a few such instances:

    • He adapts to your family traditions and festivals
    • He adapts to your peculiar habits, such as having black coffee at breakfast
    • He adapts to your food habits. If you’re vegan and he isn’t, he still tries to take you out to vegan restaurants just to be with you

    20. He doesn’t just say “I love you” but shows it

    In this day and age, dates are as easily available as pizza ordered from a food app. The word ‘love’ is thrown around casually. But one of the true love signs from a man is when he doesn’t just say he loves you but also proves it from time to time.

    Dr. Batra says, “Actions that speak louder than words. And if he’s ready to cook breakfast even if he has to leave for work in 5 minutes, because you’re not feeling well, it’s definitely one of the signs of true love from boyfriend.”

    Infographic On Undeniable Signs Of True Love

    Now that you’ve gone through our detailed low-down on what the signs of true love from boyfriend or husband are, let’s look at a few more such signs of true love from a man. We hope this helps you get over any doubts that you may have about your relationship.

    Undeniable Signs Of True Love
    Signs of true love from boyfriend or husband

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do you know a man genuinely loves you?

    You can be sure a man loves you if he shows certain signs. For instance, he will remember small things about you, make you laugh, give you space, and be honest about you.

    2. Does he really love me or is he playing me?

    Well, a player will be intermittent as far as his attention is concerned. He will not communicate openly, will not be available when you need him, and will lie to you blatantly. So, now, you have your answer, if you’re wondering whether your partner loves you or is playing with you.

    Key Pointers

    • True love is when you accept each other’s flaws and quirks and are there for each other in happy and sad times
    • In real love, you will work as a team and will genuinely care about each other’s well-being
    • Some of the signs of true love from a man are: honesty, the will to make you laugh, respect for space, affection, and compromises

    Final Thoughts

    Dr. Batra explains, “Remember, true love isn’t all about fairytales and dramatic displays of affection but the little things that make you feel special. If your guy’s ticking off these signs, you’ve got yourself a keeper. And if he occasionally dresses up as a dinosaur to make you laugh just because you love them, well, that’s just a bonus.”

    So, don’t hesitate to fall in love with a guy who makes it evident with his actions and words that he is indeed in love with you. We hope our detailed list of 20 signs of true love from a man has helped you answer your burning question, “Does he love me or is he just pretending to?” We also hope you find your true love soon, in case you haven’t already. Take it slow. You’ll get there someday.

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  • How Long Does The Honeymoon Phase Last?

    How Long Does The Honeymoon Phase Last?

    Have you ever noticed that when a relationship enters troubled waters, people reminisce about their initial love-struck days? “He was such a sweetheart when we started going out. He took such good care of me.” “When we first started going out, she was so thoughtful and caring. Wish I could get that version of her back.” In relationship parlance, we call those good old days the honeymoon phase or the cupcake phase. Given how bright and rosy everything seems, it’s only natural to wonder, “How long does the honeymoon phase last?” 

    Whether you’re on the brink of a new relationship or your current partnership doesn’t feel like the bed of roses it used to be, awareness about what happens when the honeymoon period fades can help you navigate the different stages of falling in love a little better. So, grab your coffee and sit tight as we are about to serve you the whole nine yards of the honeymoon episode with a side of what comes after the honeymoon phase in a relationship.

    What Is The Honeymoon Phase Of A Relationship?

    The honeymoon phase refers to the very beginning of a new relationship when a couple goes through an ecstatic state of intense passion, love, and physical attraction. In every waking moment, you keep thinking about this special person. You feel so in love you can’t stop smiling involuntarily. The heart races the moment you see them and you lit up like a million fireflies!

    It’s that dating phase where you love more fight less; it’s a phase of countless romantic dates and endless conversations. Spending quality time with your bae becomes your top priority. Not to mention sexual sparks fly high in the honeymoon phase of a relationship. You can hardly keep your hands off each other. 

    Related Reading: Why Do Relationship Changes Happen And What To Do

    During these early days, you both are always on your best behavior. From changing your wardrobe and buying expensive gifts to staying up all night to chat, you can go to any extent to make this person fall for you even more. In the first few months, you look at your new partner through rose-colored glasses of awe and admiration. It leaves you hypnotized by their charm. They can do no wrong, they can’t say a bad thing. Most couples don’t even notice any red flags until they explore the other complicated stages of falling in love.

    During the honeymoon phase, you can barely keep your hands off each other

    How Long Does The Honeymoon Phase Last?

    Now, it’s time to address the elephant in the room – how long is the honeymoon phase in a relationship? More importantly, can the honeymoon phase last forever? Well, as much as you want to hold on to the romantic tête-à-têtes and the passionate sex, the cupcake phase is a fun ride that inevitably comes to an end.

    Related Reading: 7 Tips To Make It Through The Hardest Months In A Relationship

    To find an answer to, how long does the honeymoon phase last, you have to understand that this thrill, excitement, the very feeling of ‘being in love’—it’s all a mere outcome of certain chemical reactions in our brain. Let’s explore some research data:

    • According to a study, the sustenance of romantic love is associated with the activation of dopamine and oxytocin-rich regions of the brain
    • Another article published in Scientific American talks about a study that reveals how people who have just fallen in love have a higher level of nerve growth factor than those who are single or in long-term relationships. A higher NGF score suggests increased emotions of euphoria and attachment in a person. What’s interesting is that the NGF and cortisol level difference between these two groups receded within 12-24 months
    • As spoken to Scientific American by Gary W. Lewandowski, Jr., associate professor of psychology at Monmouth University, “These findings suggest that romantic love is an arousing but stressful experience. These physiological changes are short-lived, perhaps because we become acclimated to our partner with time.”

    And that’s one of the major reasons the honeymoon period wears off eventually. So, how long is the honeymoon phase in a relationship? That varies from couple to couple as every relationship progresses at its own pace. As rare as it is, some couples might even respond in the affirmative to the question, can the honeymoon phase last forever? That too, after thirty-forty years of their marriage.

    Exceptions aside, typically, the honeymoon phase of a relationship can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months or even up to a year. According to a 2015 study, the honeymoon period can last from six months to almost 2.5 years. But most people can’t manage to keep the spark alive after the very early stages and that’s completely normal. It’s in no way an indication that you’re not in a happy, healthy relationship. 

    How to recognize that the honeymoon phase is over?

    There is no way of predicting how long does the honeymoon phase last. And if you ask us, you shouldn’t keep an eye out for it either. It will only ruin the pure magic of the honeymoon phase of a relationship. For as long as you can love more fight less, and enjoy intense physical intimacy, cherish this blissful spell in your life. However, if you are starting to feel like something’s wrong between you and your bae, it’s probably because the short-and-sweet bubble of the cupcake phase is finally popping. Here are a few signs to recognize that the honeymoon phase is over:

    • As your rose-tinted glasses come off, you now see your partner in a realistic light which makes their negative traits and annoying habits more prominent 
    • After the dopamine high wanes, ordinary activities like watching a movie together or going for a walk that felt so exhilarating earlier become mundane
    • During the post-honeymoon phase, you start spotting the relationship red flags which, like it or not, leads to more disagreements and arguments 
    • Your sex life too takes a hit at this dating phase. The blazing physical attraction of the early stages slowly fizzles out
    • You cut back on the quality time you spend together. Not meeting each other every day becomes a normal occurrence 
    • After the infatuation period, you stop pretending to be the pristine souls and be comfortable enough to see each other in your PJs and messy hair or perhaps use a swear word or two in front of them

    Related Reading: What Does It Mean When Someone Says They Are Looking For ‘Something Casual’?

    What Comes After The Honeymoon Phase In A Relationship?

    Now that we have a fair idea of how long is the honeymoon phase in a relationship let’s get cracking what comes after the honeymoon phase in a relationship. First, you have to realize that this is just a dating phase, not a parameter of your feelings for each other. The honeymoon phase withering away doesn’t equal falling out of love with your partner.

    It’s not the end of the world; you are just transitioning to the next pitstop in the different stages of falling in love. If you are worried about the kind of future you can expect with your partner, let’s walk you through the different junctures of attachment that follow the honeymoon phase of a relationship:

    Stories about love and romance

    1. Disillusionment 

    The very next stage you embark upon brings in all kinds of insecurities, uncertainties, and reality checks. Suddenly something starts to feel off in your relationship. Your partner slips from the pedestal you put them on and you see them for who they truly are.  

    If one partner is too bossy, overly possessive, or emotionally a few steps behind the other, it will induce a power struggle between them. With one person taking charge or being emotionally unavailable, the other partner will question their compatibility, feel insecure about the very foundation of the relationship, and doubt any possibilities of future happiness with each other. 

    Related Reading: 11 Situationship Red Flags You Should Know About

    How to navigate the disillusionment phase

    Going through the disillusionment phase is the hardest part for all couples. With the slightest inconvenience, you might feel an urge to end things for good. But we have a few clever tricks for you to weather the storm and come out of it stronger as a couple:

    • Remember to stand your ground steady while making some space for changes 
    • You need to make a conscious effort to accept the differences and respect your partner’s individuality 
    • Open communication is always the best solution to affirm your needs and understand each other’s expectations from this relationship
    • Both partners need to be equally on board in this journey to build a healthy relationship
    • Of course, you should try hard to make it through this stage but never give up on your values and boundaries and compromise on the non-negotiables 

    2. Attachment 

    Yes, keeping the spark alive may seem like a daunting task now. But what comes after the honeymoon phase in a relationship is far more rewarding than the sheer thrill of a budding romance. In the attachment stage, you experience emotional connection and vulnerability and get to see each other’s raw, authentic selves. It’s in this stage that both partners start to depend on each other. They build trust and gather unwavering willpower to stick together, no matter the odds. 

    How to navigate the attachment phase

    Your relationship isn’t shatterproof just yet. As you discover each other in a new light, there’s still a lot of wonder, disappointment, grief, and frustration in store for you. New challenges will unlock every other day. The lifespan of your relationship boils down to how you handle all these feelings and work your way up to a committed relationship. Here’s what we suggest:

    Related Reading: 125 Sweet Things To Say To Your Wife In A Text

    • This is your chance to get to know your partner on a deeper level. So spend time with them as much as possible
    • Don’t shy away from being vulnerable in front of them
    • Learn and acknowledge each other’s insecurities, scars, and darkest thoughts. It’s an important building block of a strong emotional bond
    • Take an interest in what your partner is passionate about. Try to analyze things from their perspective. Flying solo isn’t a sign of healthy relationships. You have to be a team player
    • Don’t sweep your problems under the rug. For a sustainable partnership, keep a solution-oriented approach to conflict resolution
    stages of falling in love
    After the honeymoon phase, you start to see your partner for who they truly are

    3. Stable partnership

    Do you remember how we started this discussion? Can the honeymoon phase last forever? I think you will agree that as much as we all root for the fairytale love to never fade, this final dating phase is our end goal. After floating through the troubled waters for so long you finally reach a calm, stable state. 

    No more surprises left; you have nothing to hide from each other. Together you have created a safe nest to nurture your love. You get a sense of comfort and security in each other’s company. Taking a leap with your partner like moving in together or getting engaged seems more feasible at this point. Once again, you love more fight less!

    Related Reading: 21 Clear Signs She Doesn’t Want A Relationship With You

    How to navigate a stable partnership

    First of all, big applause to you and your partner for making it this far. We can see you are practically inseparable. But love is like a kite that will slip off your grip if you are not paying attention for even a little while. Since we all want a fairytale ending for your relationship, here are a few pointers to strengthen the bond with your partner:

    • Don’t let your love sink under the grocery bills and office presentations. To keep the spark alive, keep dating each other, spend quality time, bring them flowers, plan surprises, go on vacations 
    • When you become too complacent in a relationship, you tend to take each other for granted. To not turn into that distant, arrogant partner, express your gratitude, tell them how much you love them at least once every day, and always try to be true to your words
    • Value the commitment you have made toward one another. Without loyalty and transparency, the whole foundation might collapse like a house of cards 
    • For some couples, physical attraction might be scarce after reaching this point. There are plenty of ways to spice things up in the bedroom – off the top of my head, roleplay?

    Key Pointers

    • The honeymoon phase is the very beginning of a relationship when a couple remains hypnotized by each other’s cham without a worry in the world
    • This phase can last from a few months up to 2.5 years, depending on the couple’s emotional connection and several other factors
    • After the initial euphoria fades, reality hits in the disillusionment period and two lovers start to notice each other’s quirks and imperfections
    • As they make it to the attachment phase, a stronger bond develops based on trust and vulnerability
    • In the final stage, they experience a calm, stable love being fully committed to each other

    Final Thoughts 

    Now that you have the answer to, how long does the honeymoon phase last, Or are you ready to explore the upcoming adventures hand in hand with your sweetheart? Yes, the early stages are easy-going. There’s thrill, eagerness, and an all-consuming magnetic attraction that keep you glued to your partner. And that serves as the foundation of a relationship. 

    That being said, there’s no need to feel daunted by the probable hardships of the post-honeymoon period. Treat the end of your honeymoon days as a new beginning, full of possibilities. No matter what stage of the relationship you are at, what’s important is that you value each other’s presence in your lives, respect each other’s individuality and keep your love alive for an eternity.

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  • 125 Deep Questions To Ask Your Boyfriend To Truly Understand Him

    125 Deep Questions To Ask Your Boyfriend To Truly Understand Him

    Conversations play an important role in building intimacy in a relationship and bringing partners closer. But not all conversations are created equal. While banter and fun has its place in keeping a relationship fresh and exciting, to get to know your partner on a deeper level, you need to dig beneath the surface and ask some serious, sometimes, even hard questions. This lowdown on 125 deep questions to ask your boyfriend is designed to help you do just that.  

    125 Deep Questions To Ask Your Boyfriend To Deepen Intimacy

    Your boyfriend is an adventure enthusiast. He likes his coffee black and bitter. He is a Knicks fan. He loves a juicy steak. And prefers a good G&T to beer. Sappy sitcoms are his guilty pleasure. Knowing all this,  you may think that you know your boyfriend like the back of your hand. Well, there is no denying that these little details play a role in helping you understand and connect with your man. However, all of this still amounts to surface-level knowledge about who is. 

    I mean, think about it. It’s nothing his closest pals or his siblings wouldn’t know about him. Real intimacy is understanding your partner’s behavior patterns, emotional responses, and thought processes, and knowing where they stem from. That journey begins with an exploration of deep questions to ask your boyfriend. From serious questions to ask your boyfriend to deep romantic questions to ask your boyfriend, there is a whole gamut of issues and topics you can explore to get to know him better. Let’s take a look:

    Related Reading: 55+ Flirty First Date Questions | Jaw-Dropping List of 2023

    Deep questions to ask your boyfriend over text

    Text conversations are an integral part of romantic relationships in the present time. Right from the talking stage to the honeymoon phase of the relationship and beyond, partners text each other throughout the day, and when they’re not physically together, often late into the night. Why not use these text interactions to get to know your partner better? Here are some deep questions to ask your boyfriend over text to help you get started:  

    1. What dreams do you hold closest to your heart?
    2. How do you envision our future together?
    3. What are the moments that made you profoundly happy?
    4. When do you feel most alive?
    5. What fears do you wrestle with in the quiet of the night?
    6. How has your upbringing influenced your outlook on love?
    7. What are the lessons you’ve learned from your past relationships?
    8. In what ways do you feel most understood?
    9. What does love mean to you?
    10. What are the experiences that have shaped you the most?
    11. How do you deal with disappointment and setbacks?
    12. What are your deepest fears about our relationship?
    13. What aspirations do you have that you haven’t shared with anyone?
    14. What does forgiveness mean to you?
    15. How do you express affection and how do you wish to receive it?
    16. What’s a dream you’ve had that keeps coming back to you?
    17. What has been the happiest day of your life so far and why?
    18. What are the core values that guide your life?
    19. How important is vulnerability to you in our relationship?
    20. If you could change one thing about our relationship, what would it be?
    21. What are your thoughts on spirituality and its role in your life?
    22. What personal goals are you currently working towards?
    23. How do you feel about the balance of give and take in our relationship?
    24. What does a perfect day look like to you?
    25. How do you wish to be remembered by those you love?

    Related Reading: 26 Things To Text When A Conversation Dies

    Deep emotional questions to ask your boyfriend

    Emotional intimacy is the bedrock of a strong relationship. However, thanks to societal conditioning, not many men are forthcoming about their emotions and feelings. That’s why, to break down the walls your man has erected around his vulnerabilities and get him to let you in, you need a few interesting questions to ask your partner up your sleeve so that he opens up without feeling like he’s being pushed into a corner. Whether you’re looking for deep questions to ask your boyfriend over text or conversation topics for those pillow talks, these work like a charm:

    Deep emotional questions to ask your boyfriend
    1. What’s your earliest memory?
    2. What’s something you’re passionate about that most people wouldn’t guess?
    3. What’s your biggest fear?
    4. What causes are you most drawn to?
    5. What’s your ultimate dream vacation?
    6. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
    7. What’s the quality you admire most in a partner?
    8. What was your first impression of me?
    9. Is there anything from your past you wish you could change?
    10. How do you prefer to be comforted when you’re feeling down?
    11. What’s your love language?
    12. What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?
    13. What fictional character do you identify with most?
    14. What’s your proudest accomplishment?
    15. What’s something you’ve always wanted to tell me but haven’t?
    16. Where do you see yourself in five years?
    17. What are your deal breakers in a relationship?
    18. What’s one thing I could do to be a more supportive partner?
    19. Is there anything in our relationship that’s been bothering you?
    20. What’s your favorite memory we’ve shared so far?
    21. What turns you on?
    22. Do you feel comfortable talking about sex openly with me?
    23. What do you think is the meaning of life?
    24. How do you feel about kids?
    25. If you were a pizza topping, what would you be?

    Related Reading: 40 Things To Talk About With Your Crush

    Deep romantic questions to ask your boyfriend

    No roundup of deep questions to ask your boyfriend with a generous dose of romance, right? To make you feel more romantically in sync, here are some interesting deep romantic questions to ask your boyfriend. I hope his answers melt your heart and make you fall in love with him all over again. 

    deep romantic questions to ask your boyfriend
    1. When did you feel most vulnerable with me?
    2. What’s a dream you’ve never told anyone else?
    3. Is there a past hurt you still carry? How can I help?
    4. How can we create a deeper physical and emotional connection?
    5. Imagine your life without me. How does it feel?
    6. What turns you on emotionally?
    7. What’s a quality you deeply admire in me?
    8. Describe a specific moment when you knew you loved me.
    9. What’s a cause you’re passionate about that you’d love for us to tackle together?
    10. Is there something I do that unintentionally hurts you?
    11. How comfortable are you expressing your deepest emotions to me?
    12. Is there anything you’d like to forgive me for?
    13. What’s something you see us experiencing together in 10 years?
    14. Do you ever feel like we were meant to be together?
    15. Is there anything you’re insecure about that you’d feel safe sharing with me?
    16. What are your unspoken needs in our relationship?
    17. What’s one challenge you’d like us to face together to strengthen our bond?
    18. What’s the biggest sacrifice you’d be willing to make for our love?
    19. If you could write a love letter to your future self about me, what would it say?
    20. What’s a small gesture of love that would make your day?
    21. What are your biggest dreams, and how can I best support you in achieving them?
    22. Tell me about a time you felt completely carefree and happy with me.
    23. When are you at your most vulnerable, and how can I create a safe space for you?
    24. What’s a fantasy you’d love to explore with me?
    25. What is your most cherished memory of us together, and why does it hold such a special place in your heart?

    Related Reading: 20 Simple Ways To Make A Guy Miss You

    Hard questions to ask your boyfriend

    If you’re in it for the long haul, hardships and challenges are par for the course. It’s important to know how your partner would respond to these tough times. The answer, more often than not, is hidden in his past experiences and his worldview. So, be prepared with some hard questions to ask your boyfriend to assess your compatibility in the long term:

    hard questions to ask your boyfriend
    1. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever confided in someone about?
    2. What scares you most about becoming your true self?
    3. Is there a childhood experience that still affects you today?
    4. What keeps you up at night, both in worry and excitement?
    5. If you could change one thing in your past, what would it be?
    6. What’s your deepest insecurity, and how can I help you overcome it?
    7. What would you be willing to sacrifice for something you truly believe in?
    8. What do you want your life to be remembered for?
    9. What scares you most about death?
    10. Is there a part of yourself you feel I wouldn’t understand or accept?
    11. Is there something you’ve been wanting to tell me but haven’t?
    12. How do you handle anger in a healthy way?
    13. What are your deepest emotional needs in a relationship?
    14. Is there anything you need forgiveness for from me?
    15. What’s one thing you’d like to change about yourself, and how can I support you?
    16. What hidden talents or dreams do you have that you haven’t pursued?
    17. What truly makes you happy and feel fulfilled?
    18. When you say “I love you,” what does that mean to you?
    19. Is there a hidden desire you’ve never shared with anyone?
    20. What makes you feel most emotionally connected to someone?
    21. Do you believe in soulmates, and if so, how do you feel about our connection?
    22. How can I be your best cheerleader and support system?
    23. What does true emotional strength look like to you?
    24. What’s a future challenge you anticipate us facing, and how can we tackle it together?
    25. What are the most important emotional needs you have in a relationship?

    Related Reading: 75 Love And Trust Messages For Distance Relationship For Him

    Deep questions to ask your boyfriend about his past

    The past doesn’t have to be an ominous word looming like a dark cloud over your relationship. After all, your partner’s past experiences, both good and bad, have made them the person they are today — the person you fell in love with. One of the best ways to accept the past is to understand it. These deep questions to ask your boyfriend about his past will help you do just that:  

    deep questions to ask your boyfriend about his past
    1. What’s a single event that shaped who you are today?
    2. Have you ever experienced a loss that truly changed you?
    3. Looking back, is there a decision you deeply regret? What did you learn from it?
    4. Tell me about a challenging experience you had with a family member.
    5. Describe a time you faced a major obstacle and how you conquered it.
    6. Tell me about your first love. How did it shape your views on relationships?
    7. Did you ever have a hidden talent or passion you gave up on? Why?
    8. Have you ever made a mistake that continues to weigh on you?
    9. What’s a dream you once had that you had to let go of?
    10. Did you have a rebellious phase? Tell me about it.
    11. Describe a close friendship that had a significant impact on you.
    12. What was your biggest fear as a teenager, and how do you feel about it now?
    13. What’s a major life decision you once made that you still question?
    14. Tell me about a time you felt rejected and how you dealt with it.
    15. When were you most vulnerable in your life, and who were you with?
    16. Have you ever witnessed or experienced an injustice that affected you deeply?
    17.  Who is someone you met in the past who left a lasting impression?
    18. What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken, and how did it turn out?
    19. What did success look like to you when you were younger? How has that definition changed?
    20. Tell me about a time you failed at something important. What did you learn from it?
    21. What’s the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in your past?
    22. Is there a secret you’ve never shared with anyone?
    23. Did you have a teacher, coach, or mentor who significantly impacted your life?
    24. Is there anything you regret regarding past relationships that you’d like to avoid with us?
    25. What was the happiest moment of your life before we met?

    Related Reading: 11 Expert Tips To Communicate Better With Your Partner

    Final Thoughts 

    Armed with these deep questions to ask your boyfriend, you will never run out of conversation topics or find yourself struggling to figure out how to broach a sensitive subject. Whether you want serious questions to ask your boyfriend or interesting questions to ask your partner to get to know them better, you’re covered. Just use them wisely, read the room, and don’t bombard your partner with a volley of questions. Weave them into conversations contextually, and you’ll see how these questions unlock a treasure trove of revelations.

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  • 15 Best Dating Apps For Cheating | 2024

    15 Best Dating Apps For Cheating | 2024

    Cheating is a choice. And a very conscious one at that. In this digital age, where there are a plethora of options available online, cheating doesn’t even need a lot of effort. A few clicks here and there, and you’re all set for some flirty exchanges or a night of steamy passion with a stranger. And what if we tell you that there are some legitimate dating apps for cheating as well as cheating websites, where being married/committed doesn’t impede your chances of finding matches? 

    In this article, we’ll give you a detailed look at 15 such dating apps for married people or those in relationships, that are apt for finding a hook-up partner to escape the drudgery of a monotonous marriage/relationship. We’ll also give you a sneak peek into the latest features and subscription details of these apps used for cheating. You will also get a lowdown on the top cheating sites. 

    15 Dating Apps For Cheating In 2024

    A 2020 article threw some light on cheating through dating apps and cheating websites during COVID-19, and it was an eye-opener. It showed how a dating site for married people saw a marked increase in the number of new members, showcasing a prominent increase in infidelity in recent times.

    And cheating, in such cases, isn’t just limited to a one-night stand. It can often extend to emotional cheating, random compulsive sexual behavior, or mere sexting and sharing provocative or explicit images. In this age of back-breaking work stress and the constant need to gratify people with our public image, many do not consider it a sin to try and infuse some spark into a drab and monotonous married life or relationship. 

    What’s the harm with trying out a few such dating apps or chat apps that are apt for a steamy affair is their argument. If you’re one of them, here’s a list of 15 dating apps for cheating:

    1. Adult Friend Finder

    Created in the 1990s, this is one of the most popular dating apps for cheating, hook-ups, and ‘sex on the go’. This is a free cheating app and boasts of over 100 million users, consisting primarily of curious couples and swingers. Be it threesomes, casual affair dating, or some steamy sexting cheating and hidden chats, this adults-only sex community has it all. This is slowly becoming one of the best-hidden cheating apps and is considered the Tinder for cheaters.

    Features

    This longest-running cheating and sex app offers the following features:

    • Fast process of registration
    • Live chat
    • Group dating forums
    • Digital magazine for better dating tips

    Available on

    • This is available on iOS and is one of the best cheating apps for iPhone.
    • Since it was removed from Google Play, Android users need to change their settings to access it on their smartphones

    Free or paid

    • It offers the choice of browsing profiles for free (while premium members have access to the more adult content)

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    1 month $27.95 per month
    3 months $19.95 per month
    12 months $14.95 per month

    Related Reading: Why We Should Stop Judging People For Extramarital Affairs

    2. Ashley Madison

    Ashley Madison

    Launched in 2002, this Canadian online dating service has now become one of the most sought-after casual dating and cheating apps to look out for. In fact, it easily makes the cut as one of the top cheating sites. People looking for casual hook-ups or sexual connections can get matches based on criteria such as lifestyle and location. It now boasts of 80 million profiles.

    Features

    Considered one of the finest hidden cheating apps, Ashley Madison offers the following features:

    • Travel-friendly features for hooking up with matches while traveling or on work trips
    • The option of browsing profiles using blurred profile photos or masking your photos
    • A strong encryption system prevents data breach by scammers or hackers
    • Instant chats
    • You can give and receive gifts
    • 24/7 customer support
    • The brand Ashley Madison will not appear on your credit card statements or bank accounts
    • You can buy credits in bundles or buy membership packages

    Available on

    • This app is available both on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    • Users can create profiles for free and browse
    • Specific features require a subscription

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Basic subscription 1 month ($59), 3 months ($99), 6 months ($149)
    Classic subscription 1 month ($79), 3 months ($139), 6 months ($229)
    Elite subscription 1 month ($249), 3 months ($499), 6 months ($749)

    3. BeNaughty

    BeNaughty

    One of the best dating apps for cheating and naughty encounters, BeNaughty helps married and single people engage in casual and short-term relationships and affairs. It lets users narrow down their search with the help of parameters such as age, gender, orientation, location, body type, etc. It boasts of a global pool of sexy singles. 

    Features

    This cheating dating app (also considered one of the best cheating sites) has the following features:

    • The option of blurring explicit content
    • Advanced search filters 
    • One-on-one messaging
    • The option of sending winks
    • Video uploads
    • Like gallery, where you can like or dislike pictures of other users
    • Though uploading display pictures isn’t mandatory, only members with photos can send messages
    • Free messaging, though male members can only send five free messages per day

    Available on

    • Considered one of the best adult cheating sites/apps, this is available on Google Play Store for Android users
    • iPhone users can access the mobile-friendly website

    Free or paid

    • Users can browse profiles for free

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Security Package $12.71 per month
    Chataholic Package $18.01 a month
    Premium Dater Package $26.49 a month

    4. FriendFinder-X

    FriendFinder-X

    This is one of the best cheating websites that is perfect for those who wish to get some respite from their mundane relationships by spicing it up with some new sexual energy. This platform offers sexually explicit content and is apt for those looking for one-night stands or just a sexting buddy with whom one wishes to share hidden chats. You can also share your sex fetishes and fantasies with willing partners.

    Features

    This sexy platform, considered one of the best adult cheating sites, has the following features:

    Available on

    • This isn’t an app, to be precise, but a website that offers an APK download

    Free or paid

    • While some features are free, the rest are accessible through paid memberships

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    1 month $40.00 per month
    3 months $27.90 per month
    12 months $20.99 per month

    Related Reading: Confession Story: Emotional Cheating Vs Friendship – The Blurry Line

    5. One Night Friend

    One Night Friend

    This platform, though not legitimately an app, is apt for a cheating husband or wife to hook up for a short while or just for a night. This is a goldmine for those not looking for long-term affair dating and is considered one of the best cheating websites.

    Features

    It can be easily counted among the best cheating websites, thanks to features like:

    • Anonymous browsing without display photos is allowed
    • Chat rooms
    • Search filters
    • Safety features, such as Full Safe mode and Basic Safe mode

    Available on

    • This isn’t an app, to be precise, but the website is optimized to be viewed on mobile phones. This also makes it the best site to find an affair

    Free or paid

    • While some features are available for free, the rest are accessible through paid memberships

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Extra Benefits $12.71
    Chataholic $18.01
    Premium Dater $26.49

    6. Victoria Milan

    Victoria Milan

    One of the better-known platforms for online affair dating, Victoria Milan is still the preferred choice for many cheating husbands and wives who wish to experiment with a new dating partner. Though it began as a Europe-centric app, today, it boasts users across 33 nations across the globe and is one of the best international sites cheaters use.

    Because the members want to avoid being detected, Victoria Milan offers anonymizing features and privacy safeguards to limit the risk of discovery, like the AnonymousBlur tool. The staff at the popular cheating dating site also monitors new member signups to ensure that screen names and other profile details don’t give away any identifying information.

    Features

    This prominent infidelity dating site is best known for features that help keep affairs discreet. These include:

    • The AnonymousBlur tool, which prevents the disclosure of identity
    • Screen names and profile details are screened for prevention of disclosure of sensitive information
    • Virtual gifts
    • Panic button, which lets you hide your tracks by redirecting you to a less suspicious page instantly
    • Featured member list
    • Instant chat
    • It doesn’t link your social media channels to the account
    • The ChatExpire feature deletes chat messages automatically after a set period, ensuring all your secret messages remain safe

    Available on

    • This app is available on the Apple App Store and is one of the best cheating apps for iPhone

    Free or paid

    • Some features of this infidelity dating site/app, such as winks and virtual flirts, are free, while others are paid

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    3 months $49.99 per month
    6 months $39.99 per month
    12 months $29.99 per month

    7. Gleeden

    Gleeden

    Launched in 2009 by a married woman, this French extramarital dating app/website shifts the focus on married women and men who wish to flirt or engage in affair dating. It claims it has helped scores of people address the boredom in their marriages and fix their relationships. It’s also known as a platform “operated by women for women” and is one of the safest apps used for cheating by women. Some also consider it the best site to find an affair.

    Features

    This women-friendly platform is one of the best cheating websites/apps and has the following features:

    • It is a completely free cheating app for women
    • Male members are evaluated by women
    • Every member gets customized advice from Gleeden experts
    • Anonymous profiles
    • Panic button
    • Icebreaker feature
    • Virtual gifts

    Available on

    • Available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    • The Basic version is free, making it one of the best cheating dating sites/apps. But users need to pay for extra benefits

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Premium €19.99 per month
    Connect €9.99 per month

    Related Reading: He Cheated On Me But Wants Me To Take Him Back

    8. Date Mate Dating

    Date Mate Dating

    Considered one of the best dating apps for cheating husbands and wives, Date Mate Dating is apt for closet gay husbands, closet lesbians, and heterosexual people who wish to indulge in a romp. It’s also a wonderful option for those willing to experiment with affairs. 

    Features

    This dating platform is one of the best apps for cheating husbands and wives and has the following features:

    • Chat messages and group chats
    • Personality type matching through questionnaires
    • It caters to all genders and sexual orientations
    • The option of connecting with the help of social media and music interests
    • It uses AI and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) techniques, such as matching language patterns, to help users connect
    • Voice coaching
    • Ice-breaker games

    Available on

    • It’s available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    • Some features are free, while users need to pay for extra benefits

    Subscription plan

    Subscription details are unavailable.

    9. Seeking Arrangement

    Seeking Arrangement

    This casual hook-up app is perfect for a cozy one-night stand or a no-strings-attached connection for cheating husbands and wives. With a dating pool of millions of members, it’s one of the best apps used for cheating. Interestingly, it’s an app that caters exclusively to sugar daddies and sugar babies.

    Features

    This casual dating platform has the following features:

    • Women can sign up free of cost
    • The user interface is available in multiple languages
    • You can filter recently active members
    • It has a good pool of elite members, including celebrities and politicians
    • Video chats
    • Gifts

    Available on

    • This app is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    • Only sugar babies can access this app for free

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Premium – 30-day plan $99.99/month
    Premium- 90-day plan $90.00/month
    Diamond $249.99/month
    Sugar Babies (infinite) Free

    10. CoverMe

    CoverMe

    This platform caters specifically to people who wish to connect secretly. So, this is apt for cheating wives and husbands who wish to explore their sexuality and engage in casual or long-term affairs. 

    Features

    This isn’t specifically a dating platform but has the following features that make it an apt cheating app:

    • Secret vault for hidden photos and chats
    • Self–destructing messages
    • Private and disposable dummy phone numbers for calling
    • Military-grade encryption
    • Decoy password and hidden log-in screen
    • Magical notifications that don’t pop up as message preview

    Available on

    • This app is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    You can create profiles for free but can access extra features for a subscription

    Subscription plan

    Plan  Cost
    Unlimited $99.99
    Large Text $39.99
    Medium $37.99
    Mini $9.99

    Related Reading: Can A Relationship Survive Cheating? 7 Factors That Determine The Outcome

    11. OkCupid

    OkCupid

    A forever-free dating platform, this dating app/website has recently been acquired by the Match Group. The free communication model makes it apt for singles and married users to hook up or engage in casual affairs or relationships also making it the best free cheating app.

    Features

    This is slowly becoming one of the best cheating dating sites/apps and has the following features:

    • Anonymous chatting 
    • The SuperLike feature 
    • The Match % feature that uses a questionnaire to test compatibility
    • The Passport feature that helps users get in touch with users outside their area
    • Boosts and SuperBoosts for timed profile highlights

    Available on

    It’s available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    Users can set up accounts for free but need to subscribe for added features

    Subscription plan

    Plan  Cost
    Basic $29.99 per month for 1 month, $19.99 per month for 3 months, and $14.99 per month for 6 months
    Premium $39.99 per month for 1 month, $26.66 per month for 3 months, $19.99 per month for 6 months
    Incognito $19.99 per month for 1 month, $14.99 per month for 3 months, $9.99 per month for 6 months

    12. Tinder

    Tinder

    Is Tinder for cheaters? Well, this fast-paced dating app has certainly become the hot spot for affairs, flirtatious banter, and casual hook-ups. The fact that Tinder is increasingly becoming a favorite cheating app for many has been proven by a study that has stated that a majority of people with Tinder profiles are married or in committed relationships. This proves it has become one of the sought-after dating apps for married people and for those in relationships.

    Features

    This popular dating platform has the following features:

    • The Swipe feature to show whether you like or dislike a profile
    • The Passport feature to connect with users all over the world can be used while on a work trip or vacation
    • The Rewind feature to undo a like or dislike
    • The Boost feature highlights Tinder profiles for 30 minutes

    Available on

    It’s available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    Users can set up accounts for free but need to subscribe for added features

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Plus $8.99 per month for younger users and $19.99 per month for users over 30
    Gold  $14.99 per month for younger users and $29.99 per month for users over 30
    Platinum $17.99 per month for users under 30 and $39.99 per month for those above 30

    13. Heated Affairs

    Heated Affairs

    A casual dating app, Heated Affairs, caters to 48 million members globally. A varied dating pool, consisting of all genders and sexual orientations, ensures one doesn’t have to waste a lot of time looking for hook-ups and affairs here. This is thus one of the best secret dating apps available and apt for some fun on the side.

    Features

    This popular and fun dating platform has the following features:

    • You can send ‘flirts’
    • You can add people to your Hotlist
    • You can refer it to a friend who is not a member yet
    • The Live Action tab offers the option of watching live shows by models
    • You can watch adult movies too
    • There are monthly events where you can participate with sexy photos
    • Member blogs and magazines

    Available on

    • It’s available on the Apple App Store

    Free or paid

    • It’s a paid app with 3 subscription plans 

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    1 month Gold $39.95/month
    3 months Gold $26.95/month
    12 months Gold $19.95/month

    Related Reading: Gut Feeling He’s Cheating, No Proof? 31 Signs Your Instincts Are On Point

    14. Down 

    Down

    This dating app encourages members to state clearly whether they’re in for a hook-up or a serious relationship. The app has a diverse dating pool, consisting of singles, married people, and people in committed relationships. They have an online blog that is one of the best sites cheaters use to gain more knowledge on infidelity. 

    Features

    This popular dating platform has the following features:

    • The Down to Chat feature, which allows people to chat anonymously 
    • The Date Mode feature, which assists users with planning their dates 
    • The Safety Center, which offers safety tips for users
    • The Discreet Mode, which lets users hide their profiles from certain people
    • The Picks Filters allow users to choose matches according to their preference

    Available on

    It’s available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    Users can set up accounts for free but need to subscribe for added features

    Subscription plan

    Plan Cost
    Basic $9.99 per month
    Premium $19.99 per month

     15. RedHotPie

    RedHotPie

    RedHotPie, an Australian app, has become one of the hot favorites with cheating spouses. This open dating platform is for singles, couples, and groups who are seeking casual and steamy sexual encounters.

    Features

    This popular and long-running dating platform has the following features:

    • You can access uncensored sexually explicit photos
    • It organizes parties for its members
    • Incognito mode
    • The option to undo likes 
    • Photo sharing
    • Private voice/video chat

    Available on

    It’s available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

    Free or paid

    Users can set up accounts for free but are required to subscribe for added features

    Subscription plan

    Plan Charges
    Premium Monthly subscription at $26.00/month, 3-monthly subscription at $12.50/month, 6-monthly subscription at $8.75/month, Annual subscription at $6.33/month
    Premium + Monthly subscription at $36.00/month, 3-monthly subscription at $17.50/month, 6-monthly subscription at $12.52/month, Annual subscription at $8.96/month
    Platinum Monthly subscription at $52.75/month, 3-monthly subscription at $25.83/month, 6-monthly subscription at $18.33/month, Annual subscription at $12.92/month
    Diamond 3-monthly subscription at $83.33/month

    Frequently Asked Question

    1. Do cheaters use dating apps?

    Yes. Cheating husbands and wives in modern relationships/marriages often take the help of various discreet features offered by dating apps to look for hookups, one-night stands, and short-term affairs. These dating apps for cheating have thus become increasingly popular. 

    Final Thoughts

    So, now that you have a fair idea of the best secret dating apps to go to when you’re feeling you could do with some fun and jazz up your life a bit, go ahead and take the plunge. Explore some of the best cheating sites out there and find the one that best aligns with your needs.

    I’m sure some of us are in relationships that we’re better off without but haven’t been able to end yet. Some of us know we have cheating partners but haven’t been able to step out of the relationships. So, what’s the harm if you decide to spice up your life a bit? Life is short. Go have some fun! And no, we’re not telling your significant other about it.

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  • Learn How To Forgive Yourself For Hurting Someone You Love

    Learn How To Forgive Yourself For Hurting Someone You Love

    A 2014 study threw light on some mind-numbing facts. It stated that we end up getting angry with and hurting those who are the closest to us. It also proved that how we hurt them “depends on our relationship with them.” Interesting, isn’t it? So, apparently, the closer we are to people, the higher our tendency to lash out at them, devalue them or neglect them. And if you’ve inadvertently hurt your SO and are wondering how to forgive yourself for hurting someone you love so dearly, you’re at the right place. 

    In this article, we’ll look at self-forgiveness psychology with insights from California-based psychiatrist and cognitive behavior therapist Dr. Shefali Batra (MD in Psychiatry), who specializes in counseling for separation and divorce, breakup and dating, and premarital compatibility issues. Let’s delve deeper into what it implies to forgive yourself if you’ve been rude to or hurt someone dear to you. Stop asking yourself, “Why can’t I forgive myself or forget what I did to hurt my partner?” Stop feeling guilty too often for messing up your bond with a loved one. We’ll tell you how…

    What Does It Mean To Forgive Yourself — Understanding The Self-Forgiveness Psychology

    Before we get on with how to forgive yourself for something unforgivable that you may have done to hurt your partner or something hurtful that you may have said to them, let’s look at the concept of self-forgiveness and see what it entails. So, what is forgiveness? Dr. Batra says, “Forgiveness could involve thoughts, emotions, and actions. But self-forgiveness is actually more difficult than forgiving others.” 

    Related Reading: How To Forgive Yourself For Cheating And Not Telling – 8 Helpful Tips

    She then goes on to explain the situation from the Freudian perspective. Here’s what she says can happen if you willingly or unwillingly hurt someone you love:

    • The superego is the morality principle in the human mind. It is also what makes you feel guilty
    • The thought component implies getting repetitive self-derogatory thoughts because of what you did
    • The emotional dimension translates to responding to those thoughts and feeling low, bad, sad, and depressed
    • The behavioral component could involve avoiding meeting the person or not engaging in specific activities to avoid the person you thought you’ve hurt (or even people who know them)

    Forgiveness could involve thoughts, emotions, and actions. But self-forgiveness is actually more difficult than forgiving others.

    — Dr. Batra

    And what does it mean to forgive yourself in such scenarios? Well, Dr. Batra explains, “Forgiving yourself for past mistakes means identifying the thoughts that are causing your negative feelings and emotions and leading to specific dysfunctional and self-sabotaging behaviors.” This can happen naturally over time, or you may need to speak to a professional counselor who can modify your thinking and feelings to more constructive, adaptive, and functional results.

    Echoing similar thoughts, a Reddit user says, “It is important to forgive yourself because it allows you to let go of the anger, sorrow, pain, and sadness attached to the situation that’s bothering you. You have to know how to accept responsibility for your actions without making excuses or beating yourself up. Because in that process you show growth. You show that you are making progress on becoming a better version of yourself.”

    Guilt complex and self-forgiveness

    Before we delve deeper into the concept of self-forgiveness, let’s look at what ‘guilt complex’ is. Guilt complex is a continuous feeling that you may have hurt someone intentionally or otherwise. The feeling, if not checked, can later turn into a psychologically devastating situation, wherein you may end up with:

    • Chronic anxiety
    • Depression
    • Low self-worth
    • Self-harm
    • Sleep issues
    • Suicidal thoughts

    How to deal with guilt

    If you have been wondering how to deal with guilt, know that self-forgiveness is the only way you can address this issue of past mistakes causing anxiety and other ailments. But how do you go about it? Here are some ways of resolving guilt through self-forgiveness suggested by Cornish and Wade in 2015:

    • Take responsibility for your actions: Be aware of where you went wrong and own up to your mistakes
    • Go through remorse: Instead of neglecting your emotions, go through remorse. The pain of having harmed a person should be felt in all its intensity for it fades in the end
    • Restore and rebuild trust in relationships: In order to make things right, a person going through intense guilt has to first apologize to the other person. They should talk it out and repair the relationship
    • Renew your worth: This is where self-forgiveness peaks and restores the guilty person’s self-worth. At the same time, the person suffering from guilt learns from the experience and is able to make better choices later.

    Now that we know what self-forgiveness psychology is all about, in the next section, let’s look at how to stop feeling bad about something you did to your partner.

    Forgiving yourself for hurting someone can be tough

    15 Expert-Backed Tips On How To Forgive Yourself For Hurting Someone You Love

    If you’re still wondering why people always and invariably end up hurting those whom they love, well, here are some insights from a Swaddle article, where psychologist Dr. Alexandra Solomon explains why this happens. She says, “It’s all a weird side effect of what happens when you cultivate safety and intimacy and love — there’s less vigilance and self-monitoring, so we often end up doing or saying things we don’t love.” 

    Take the case of my friend, Shania, for instance. Being a caring homemaker, she was always busy with her husband and her kids. She spent her entire day making sure her husband had his meals on time, her kids were picked up from school, and her house was sparkling clean, until one fine day, she lost her cool for some reason and had a bitter argument with her husband. She ended up being verbally abusive and saying some harsh words, accusing him of treating her like a doormat. 

    If we go by Dr. Solomon’s diagnosis of such scenarios, Shania was probably tired of all the emotional labor and vent her frustration at the person she was closest to — her husband. How can you bounce back from such a bad situation and stop feeling guilty? What’s the secret to forgiving yourself for past mistakes that you’re truly ashamed or embarrassed of now? Here are 15 tips from our expert Dr. Batra that explain how to forgive yourself for something unforgivable that you may have done/said to your partner:

    Related Reading: 12 Sincere Ways To Apologize To Someone You Hurt

    1. Try to be objective

    Dr. Batra says, “Obviously when you feel you have hurt someone, you are the antagonist in the story. It becomes very difficult for you to look at the scenario objectively. You are bound to think that you were the perpetrator of pain and the other person was at the receiving end.” However, this isn’t the right approach. Be objective and look at it this way: you may have had your reasons. Try to be a third person, without blaming yourself, and realize that you could not have done it any other way. 

    To judge the situation anew, you need to understand that the past does not affect your current thoughts and feelings.

    — Dr. Batra

    2. Recognize your limitations

    One of the ways you can address the “how to stop feeling bad about something you did” conundrum is by understanding that nobody’s perfect. Yes, it’s a good thing to be aware of your flaws, but as Dr. Batra says, “Try not to obsess over your flaws and imperfections. You must realize that everyone has their limits and if you had reached yours in the heat of the moment and said/done something you regretted later, it does not mean that you are not a good person.”

    In fact, if you have engaged in undesirable behavior and hurt someone you love, you need to cut down on all the self-blame and accept that you need to control your emotions and address your limitations.

    3. Identify hindsight bias

    Letting go of past mistakes and guilt may not be easy but is necessary. Dr. Batra brings in the hindsight bias while explaining how to forgive yourself for hurting someone you love. She says, “The hindsight bias can distort your perception of past events. To judge the situation anew, you need to understand that the past does not affect your current thoughts and feelings.” 

    To explain it simply, hindsight bias is when you feel your past decisions could’ve been better made (just because you have better knowledge of the situations now). So, when you ditch the hindsight bias, you realize you are not the ‘bad person’. The circumstances made you behave the way you did. And how does this help? Here’s how:

    • It makes you feel better and lighter when you realize that you did the best you could with what you had at that given time (and in your past emotional state)
    • It may also aid you in similar situations later, where you may feel and think the same way

    Related Reading: What Is Forgiveness In Relationships And Why Is It Important

     4. Acknowledge cognitive dissonance

    “Sometimes you know that what you did was right and that there was no other way, but at the same time, you continue to tell yourself that you had an option. You may be blaming yourself for not responding to their texts on time or for not calling them more regularly to fix things. But at the given time, you may have thought the no-contact rule was working. You argue, considering both sides of the coin,” says Dr. Batra. This is where cognitive dissonance comes in. It’s when you convince yourself that you’ve made the right decision after a prolonged internal conflict between two contradictory beliefs.

    So, when you’re confused by a flurry of thoughts, what helps is just understanding and telling yourself that you did your best. This brings in a synchrony between your thoughts and emotions and helps you acknowledge the fact that you too are human and it was another human action to have lashed out at or hurt your partner.

    how to forgive yourself for something unforgivable
    The best way to deal with the guilt of hurting someone is to be easy on yourself

    5. Change your narrative

    Dr. Batra has this to say to those who find it difficult to forgive themselves after hurting their loved ones: “Try to alter your ways of speaking to yourself. Your behavior stems from your thoughts, and if you go on believing that you are a ‘bad person’ instead of someone who just made a mistake or did not have a choice, you will continue to blame and adjudicate yourself.” 

    Here are a few statements she suggests adding to the narrative:

    • I did my best
    • I meant no harm
    • I just did not have a way to make it work and hence I had to let go
    • I wish and hope that this person heals. I will always wish him or her well

    Related Reading: How To Forgive And Forget In A Relationship

    6. Assess the situation

    Another way to address the “how to stop feeling bad about something you did” issue is to dissect the situation. Dr. Batra also suggests assessing the situation and asking yourself a few questions before you start negative self-talk and make yourself the villain. So, the two basic concerns that you can focus on while dissecting the situation are:

    • How did the scenario impact you before you reacted?
    • What was the root cause behind your reaction?
    • If you decided to call off a relationship or take a break for a while, why did you do so?

    Once you have some clarity about the situation, you will stop dwelling on the past and start accepting that things happen and the only way is to move forward. You see, hurt people often end up hurting others, and this is why you need to find out why you reacted the way you did. Once you start taking care of your mental health, things are bound to fall into place.

    7. Talk to a third person

    You see, things are often easier said than done. And no matter how many times you try to be objective or take on the role of a third person to judge the situation without bias, you will end up bringing in some bias. Likewise, you can’t be the only person you reach out to in such times. So, Dr. Batra says, “You should seek a third person’s perspective so that you can see things more objectively and address your mental health.” And this third person can be:

    • A trusted friend
    • A family member
    • A counselor

    Related Reading: Healthy Flirting Isn’t Damaging But Are You Crossing The Line?

    8. Express remorse 

    Well, letting go of past mistakes and guilt may not be a cakewalk, but there are ways to go ahead with it, one step at a time. One of the most effective solutions to your concern about how to forgive yourself for hurting someone is to express remorse. Yes, let your emotions out, but in an adult manner. To be more precise, learn to control your emotional outbursts. Here’s what Dr. Batra suggests:

    • Be clear about what you feel remorseful for 
    • Also, be clear about things that were not working 
    • Cry, if you want to
    • Don’t engage in further aggression, anger, or self-harm
    • Send apology texts if you want to

    9. Give them space

    Here’s another tip: personal space in a relationship can solve all your concerns about the “how to stop feeling bad about something you did” issue. So, you’ve been rude to your partner or hurt them badly. And they have now withdrawn or are giving you the silent treatment. Well, in my cousin Andrea’s case, she realized she had hurt her partner within two days of a bitter fight. But by the time she decided to get back to him, her partner had blocked her everywhere, including social media. She came running to me for advice, terrified that she wouldn’t get him back. 

    Related Reading: Is Silent Treatment In A Relationship Emotional & Mental Abuse?

    She narrated her agony, saying, “I wonder how to forgive yourself for something unforgivable! This is not something I should’ve done.” I asked her to keep calm and wait for the other person to process his emotions. And it worked. He actually reached out to her after a week. Dr. Batra concurs, and says, “It’s important to understand the other person’s view on the matter and give them their space while you work on yourself alongside.” And this way, you’ll know how much the other person values you. 

    10. Be easy on yourself and your SO

    One of the most effective self-forgiveness exercises is to be easy on both yourself and your partner. Dr. Batra says, “In such scenarios, it’s important to shift self-perception and practice self-compassion.” And how do you do that? Well, you need to accept that everyone makes mistakes and it does not make you a ‘bad person’. Learn to love yourself despite your flaws. And this works both ways. You need to realize you may have overreacted and that your partner is also human and could’ve made a few mistakes on their part too. 

    11. Build self-worth

    One of the best solutions to your concerns on how to forgive yourself for hurting someone is to build self-esteem and productively spend your time. In fact, in situations such as these, where you are drowning in negativity and self-doubt, it’s absolutely essential to build self-worth. Dr. Batra says, “The first step to addressing your mental health in such cases is to focus on your own life and try to be a better person. This will also help you become a better partner later.” Here’s how:

    • Take up a new hobby, such as dance, music, or martial arts
    • Take care of your health and eat well
    • Splurge on a random shopping spree and gift yourself an outfit

    Related Reading: The Role Of Self-Esteem In Relationships – Take This Test To Assess Yours Today!

    12. Start journaling 

    Are you still wondering, “How do I forgive myself for past mistakes?” Dr. Batra says, “One of the best things you can do to address your mental health in such scenarios is use ‘narrative and affirmative’ therapy.” And what exactly is this? Well, it’s nothing but writing down your thoughts and feelings to give yourself some perspective. It also helps you arrange your thoughts and prevents you from wallowing in self-pity or drowning in depression. In fact, this is one of the best self-forgiveness exercises.

    Stories-about-Suffering-and-Healing

    13. Learn from the experience

    In the harshest of cases, you’ve probably been too rude to the person, may have accused them of something they haven’t done or may have ignored him or neglected her when they needed you the most. As a result, you may have lost them, but you need to realize that too was an experience to cherish.

    Dr. Batra says, “When you recognize what this has taught you and how you will do better for yourself and for the next person you are with, you will feel less pain.” So, never stop short of learning relationship lessons from the experience, and don’t make the same mistake twice.

    14. Give it time

    Dr. Batra says, “The harshest of wounds heal eventually, with time.” So, no matter how tough it has been for you to deal with the fact that you’ve messed up your relationship by being mean to your partner, give it some time. Don’t drown in thoughts such as “Why can’t I forgive myself?” Time will give you the space required to collect your thoughts and reach back to them as a healed person.

    And even if it doesn’t end on a good note, time will still have healed you. Talking about what taking time to heal emotional wounds should look like, a Reddit user says, “Drunk time doesn’t count. Time spent so distracted becomes avoidance so it doesn’t count. Filling the void with the wrong thing (like a rebound relationship) doesn’t count. You actually have to FACE the issue. And that part sucks so much. But, for better or worse, humans are extremely adaptive, and we will become accustomed to our new life without that partner, without that parent, without that pet, without that hand.”

    Related Reading: 6 Cheaters Tell Us How They Feel About Themselves

    15. Restore the relationship

    If things can still be mended between the two of you, don’t waste time dwelling on negativity. If two people feel they had the best connection ever and that they really complemented each other, it’s worth giving it another shot. 

    Relationship expert Tony Robbins says, “When you can recognize that you hurt someone you love, you can start repairing your relationship. Simply acknowledging your partner’s pain can provide them with some small comfort of feeling seen. Likewise, Dr. Batra suggests, “Work on slowly restoring and rebuilding love with the one you hurt. Even if you lose the romantic bond, you may still retain the friendship.”

    Infographic On Self-forgiveness Exercises

    There are several exercises that you can adopt to address the guilt complex that may bother you after you hurt somebody. Here’s a low-down on a few such activities.

    Self-forgiveness Exercises
    15 tips on how to forgive yourself for hurting someone you love

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How to overcome guilt of hurting someone?

    To overcome the guilt of hurting someone, you need to be objective, avoid hindsight bias, give it some time and space, and assess the situation. You can also involve a third party for an unbiased view on the topic.

    2. Why did I hurt someone I love?

    You may not have consciously hurt someone you loved. You may also have been stressed or angry with some other issue, such as work or an illness, when you may have used some unsavory words. In many cases, people end up hurting their loved ones unknowingly, without realizing the impact of their words

    Key Pointers

    • We often end up hurting people we love or are closest to
    • If you’re often asking yourself, “How do I forgive myself for past mistakes?”, it requires identifying the emotions that are causing you to self-blame
    • Here’s how to forgive yourself for hurting someone you love: by being objective, recognizing your limitations, giving your partner space, and expressing remorse

    Final Thoughts

    As Nobel Prize-winning South African theologian Desmond Tutu said, “The simple truth is, we all make mistakes, and we all need forgiveness.” So, don’t be too hard on yourself, and realize that circumstances may have made you react a certain way. You may have had no other choice, or you may have been going through a tough time. But what is more important is to acknowledge the mistake and manage the situation effectively. The only solution to the “how to forgive yourself for something unforgivable” situation is to realize we’re all humans.

    We hope this article helped you in case you were wondering how to forgive yourself for hurting someone you love dearly. So, stop fretting over “Why can’t I forgive myself for hurting him/her?” and take it easy. We also hope you end up with the person again, rejuvenating the bond. Here’s wishing you all the luck in forgiving yourself for past mistakes and looking at life with a positive lens!

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  • 7 Therapist-Approved Things To Do If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating On You

    7 Therapist-Approved Things To Do If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating On You

    Wondering what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you? There is never an easy answer to this question. I experienced this first-hand while trying to help my best friend, Sarah, deal with the blow of infidelity. Sarah had been in a relationship with her boyfriend, Alex, for three years. She thought they had a strong connection, but lately, a nagging feeling had taken root in her mind. Alex had become distant, often sneaking away to take calls and spending less time at home.

    One day, Sarah stumbled upon a suspicious text message on his phone, which confirmed her worst fears. Her world came crashing down when she realized that Alex had been cheating on her. In that moment, Sarah felt a rush of conflicting emotions: betrayal, anger, and heartbreak. She felt lost and didn’t know how to deal with a cheating boyfriend. All I could do was be there for her, as a shoulder to cry on, a strong pillar of support. The pain and angst were hers to endure.

    In watching her ordeal up close, I realized that while discovering infidelity is devastating, with the right approach, you can find clarity and decide the best path forward for your well-being. To understand what the right approach is, I spoke to psychologist Anita Eliza (MSc in Applied Psychology), who specializes in issues like anxiety, depression, relationships, and self-esteem. Read on to learn what to do if your boyfriend cheats on you and make informed decisions about your relationship.

    How To Tell If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating: 9 Tell-Tale Signs 

    Unless you have caught your boyfriend red-handed or his infidelity is out in the open, before addressing the question of what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you, you need to be sure that infidelity is at play. Gut feeling he is cheating, but proof to back it up can be an agonizing place to be. You are constantly walking on eggshells, with a knot in your stomach, because you don’t know what’s true and what’s an act he’s putting up to cover his tracks. 

    Confront him without concrete evidence, and you risk your suspicions being invalidated and dismissed off-hand. Besides, if he is cheating, your suspicions and inquiries will sound the alarm bell, telling him to be more cautious. On the other hand, if he is not cheating and you’ve misread the situation completely, the accusations can cause serious damage to your bond. 

    Now, the question is, how to tell if your boyfriend is cheating on you? Anita shares 9 tell-tale signs of a cheating boyfriend in a relationship to watch out for: 

    Related Reading: Expert Lists Out 9 Effects Of Cheating In A Relationship

    1. There is a sudden emotional distance 

    That gut feeling, “My boyfriend is cheating on me”, that you have been wrestling with is likely stemming from the emotional distance you have been feeling. Anita says, “You can feel the emotional distance creeping between you and your partner even if you can’t put a finger on it.” 

    Now, a person may act emotionally distant because of factors like stress or problems in their professional or personal life. However, these things are discussed in a relationship. If there is no plausible reason behind this change in this behavior, being emotionally distant could be one of the signs of a cheating boyfriend in a relationship.

    2. A changed relationship with his phone 

    How to tell if your boyfriend is cheating on you, you ask? The biggest clues of infidelity often are hidden in a person’s relationship with their phone. Being excessively protective of and dependent on one’s phone is a tell-tale sign of cheating. Here is what cell phone cheating signs may look like: 

    • He carries his phone with him wherever he goes, even if it is to answer the door 
    • If you live together, you may notice that he spends most of his free time texting rather than paying attention to you 
    • If you don’t, you may find his phone busy at all hours 
    • Or notice that he is online, but not texting you or even replying to your texts 
    • Changed passwords, password protecting certain apps, or locking certain chats are also red flags you mustn’t ignore 

    3. He is irritable and short with you 

    If your boyfriend is always in a mood, irritable, and ready to snap, no matter how hard you try to smooth things over, it could be because the turmoil of leading a double life is getting to him. He may be reeling under cheating guilt or struggling to figure out a way forward—should he come clean to you, should he end the affair, or should he end things with you to be with the other woman? After all, it’s not easy carrying out two relationships and keeping it all on the down-low.  

    4. An inexplicable change in routine 

    In any intimate relationship, partners know each other’s routines rather well. Even if you don’t live together, you’d know what time your boyfriend typically wakes up, he leaves for work, goes to the gym, has coffee, takes a shower, eats his meals, and so on. Perhaps, there was a time when you shared pictures and updates with each other throughout the day. 

    “While it’s natural for the frequency of exchanges to die down as you become more settled in a relationship, partners still are in the know of what’s going on in each other’s day and life and can predict with fair accuracy what the other must be up to at a given hour. It’s a sign of intimacy in a relationship,” explains Anita. Now, if his routine has suddenly become so unpredictable that you have no idea where he is or what he is up to for hours (or days) on end, it is a glaring red flag that indicates your boyfriend is cheating. 

    5. He is being secretive 

    So, what’s new in your boyfriend’s life? Who has he been hanging out with? How has work been for him? Which coworkers is he getting along with these days? If you don’t know the answer to these questions because he is being excessively secretive and responds to your questions with vague responses like, “Oh, I was out with just some friends” or “Having drinks with people from work”, you’re right to be worried. The “my boyfriend is cheating on me” concern doesn’t take hold in a vacuum. 

    Related Reading: How To Make A Cheating Boyfriend Feel Bad – 11 Surefire Ways

    6. You have caught him in a lie

    If your boyfriend keeps coming up with excuses for why he cannot do something or spend time with you or why he was incommunicado and his stories don’t add up, it’s likely that he has been lying to you. When a person is telling the truth, their version of events stays consistent. But if they lie to hide their tracks, chances are they will forget certain details and offer new versions of the story every time you bring it up. If you have caught him in a similar lie, not once but several times over, it’s one of the telling signs of a cheating boyfriend in a relationship. 

    7. He gets defensive when questioned 

    When you do catch him a lie or ask him questions about a certain situation over and over again, a cheating boyfriend will get defensive, and come up with retorts like, 

    • “I can’t believe you don’t trust me.”
    • “You’re acting crazy. I won’t put up with it.” 
    • “How can you doubt me?”
    • “Why would I lie?”

    This, for him, is the easiest way to wriggle out of answering difficult questions that may expose his cheating, lying ways. 

    Related Reading: 11 Feelings One Goes Through After Being Cheated On

    8. A change in libido 

    Yes, it’s perfectly natural for sexual desire to ebb and flow, and patterns of sexual intimacy to change in a relationship. However, these changes are gradual and feel organic. If, on the other hand, there is a sudden and drastic change in your boyfriend’s libido—he can’t seem to get enough of you for some days, and then, shows no interest in being intimate for days or weeks, it could be because the dynamics of his other relationship are impacting how he behaves with you. 

    You may even notice that there are times when you’re physically intimate but he feels so distant and aloof. So, if you want to know how to tell if your boyfriend is cheating, pay attention to how you both connect in the bedroom.  

    9. You’re no longer a priority

    A successful relationship is based on the premise of both partners making an effort to prioritize each other. Yes, there are times when work, social commitments, and domestic responsibilities get in the way but you do find a way to snap out of it and reconnect. However, if your boyfriend is cheating on you, he may no longer make that effort. Instead, you may notice that he prioritizes anything and everything above you. He’s always too busy to meet or talk because, 

    • He’s been busy at work 
    • He’s spending more time at the gym 
    • He needs to hang out with the guys 
    • He is visiting his family over the weekend
    • He is attending his coworker’s cousin’s kid’s bar mitzvah

    The fact is that he is unavailable because he needs to carve out more and more time to spend with the other woman. A part of you knows it. That’s why there is a voice in your head that won’t stop saying, “He is cheating on me.”  

    What To Do If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating On You: 7 Therapist-Approved Things To Try

    “He cheated on me. What should I do?” Allow us to help. Discovering that your boyfriend is cheating on you can be one of the most painful and devastating experiences in a relationship. The betrayal trauma and feelings of hurt and confusion can be overwhelming, leaving you grappling with thoughts like what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you or how to get over a cheating boyfriend.

    However, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and there are steps you can take to cope with this situation and move forward healthily. From staying calm and thinking things through to seeking support and setting boundaries, below are seven strategies that might answer your question, “He’s cheating on me. What should I do?”:

    Related Reading: Emotional Adultery: I’m Cheating On My Wife, Not Physically But Emotionally

    1. Stay calm and think through

    “My boyfriend cheated on me. I don’t know what to do.” Can’t figure out how to deal with a cheating boyfriend? Well, it’s natural to feel a range of emotions when you suspect or discover that your boyfriend is cheating on you. You may feel angry, hurt, betrayed, or even be in denial. However, taking a step back, acknowledging and processing your emotions, and assessing the situation before reacting is important.

    You deserve to feel safe, respected, and valued in your relationship.

    – Anita Eliza, counseling psychologist

    Pay attention to your gut feeling and any red flags that may have been present in the relationship. If you have concrete evidence of infidelity, such as messages or receipts, gather it in a safe place. Before making any decision, it’s crucial to ensure that your “He’s cheating on me” suspicions are based on facts. According to Anita, below are a few signs that your boyfriend cheated on you:

    • Behavior change: Sudden changes in behavior such as being overly sensitive or distant can be a red flag
    • Lack of transparency: If he is suddenly guarding his phone, email, or social media accounts, it could indicate he is hiding something
    • Increased secrecy: He may start going out more frequently without providing a clear explanation or become defensive when questioned about his whereabouts
    • Lack of interest: He might lose interest in activities or topics that used to be important to both of you, showing disengagement from the relationship
    • Emotional distance: Your relationship may be less intimate with fewer expressions of affection or interest in spending time together
    • Unexplained expenses or gifts: You may notice unfamiliar charges on credit card statements or find items that seem like gifts from someone else
    • Changes in appearance: Suddenly paying more attention to grooming, dressing differently, or wearing perfume might be an attempt to impress someone else

    If you find these signs relatable, you may be contending with the dilemma of what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you. Anita says, “Take a deep breath and try not to panic. Acknowledge and accept your feelings of hurt anger and sadness without judgment. Allow yourself to feel and process these emotions. Take time to analyze the relationship and identify any warning signs or underlying issues that may need attention for personal growth.”

    It’s essential to approach this whole “he cheated on me and I’m gutted” situation with a clear head to avoid making hasty decisions you might regret later.

    Related Reading: Painful Message To A Cheating Boyfriend: 50 Brilliant Ideas

    2. Talk about the infidelity

    Once you have gathered your thoughts and evidence, it’s time to have an honest conversation with your boyfriend. Choose a time when you both feel comfortable and calm and can speak openly without interruptions or distractions. Be honest about your feelings without being accusatory. Avoid the blame game. While your boyfriend’s actions were wrong, focusing on self-blame or revenge won’t help you heal.

    Before making any decision, ensure that your suspicions are based on facts.

    To those wondering, “He’s cheating on me. How do I confront him about it?”, Anita advises, “Have a chat with your boyfriend about what’s bothering you. Be honest and try to understand each other’s feelings without blaming.” According to her, here is how and what you should say:

    • Express how you feel using “I” statements, such as “I feel deeply hurt and betrayed by what has happened.”
    • Avoid blame-shifting or making accusations, and instead focus on specific behaviors that have raised red flags
    • Express your concerns and feelings and the impact of his actions on the relationship
    • Be prepared for his reaction — denial, anger, or a tearful confession, are all possibilities

    This conversation might not provide all the answers, but it’s a crucial step toward healing and moving forward. Also, make sure you give your boyfriend a chance to explain. Listening can provide insight into their behavior and help you understand the full picture. This doesn’t excuse cheating, but it can offer clarity on underlying issues in the relationship.

    Related Reading: 10 Smart Ways To Punish A Cheating Boyfriend Emotionally

    3. Get support

    If you’re still wondering how to deal with a cheating boyfriend, then there’s one easy answer – lean on your support network. Going through the pain of infidelity can be isolating and overwhelming, which is why having your best friend or loved ones around is important.

    For example, Sarah says just my being there for her, hearing her out, and giving her a safe space to vent, helped her feel less alone and lost. Anita agrees and advises, “Try talking to someone you trust like a friend or a family member about what’s going on. Reach out to them for comfort, validation, and perspective during this difficult time.” We agree. It’s important to:

    • Not bottle up your emotions. Try journaling to process your feelings
    • Reach out to your support system or network of trusted friends or family members who can provide emotional support and a listening ear
    • Consider joining a support group for people who have been cheated on
    • Join online communities or forums to connect with others who’ve faced similar situations

    When trying to figure out what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you, consider sharing your experience with those who care about you. “It can help release feelings of resentment and anger toward your boyfriend for your peace of mind and well-being,” adds Anita.

    4. Set boundaries

    “I was cheated on by my boyfriend. What should I do?”, “My boyfriend is cheating on me. How do I deal with it?” Constantly asking yourself such questions? Well, first of all, set some rules and boundaries. If you decide to stay in the relationship, it’s important to set clear boundaries to rebuild trust and ensure both partners understand each other’s expectations moving forward. Anita says, “Decide what you will and will not tolerate in your relationship. Let your boyfriend know what you need from him to feel better.”

    Establishing boundaries might look like:

    • Open and honest communication
    • Transparency with phones and social media
    • Regular check-ins about feelings and relationship dynamics
    • Agreements on acceptable behavior and deal-breakers
    • Limited or no contact with the affair partner

    It’s also important to establish consequences if these boundaries are violated. Remember, you have the right to feel safe and respected in your relationship.

    Infographic for What To Do If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating On You
    7 Therapist-Approved Things To Do If Your Boyfriend Is Cheating On You

    If you decide to end the relationship

    However, if you decide to walk out of the relationship, then the boundaries will differ but, either way, establishing the same is crucial for your nervous system and overall well-being. Anita explains, “It can provide space for the innocent partner to gain clarity, rebuild their self-esteem, and protect themselves from further emotional harm. However, they must communicate their boundaries assertively and stick to them for their mental health.”

    In this case, you also need to figure out how to get over a cheating boyfriend. For that, Anita strongly recommends establishing a no-contact rule with your cheating partner. She says, “Consider distancing yourself from your ex-boyfriend to give yourself space to heal and move on. This is especially important in the initial stages of separation to allow for processing of emotions and healing without constant reminders of the betrayal.”

    Related Reading: 7 Tips To Forgive A Cheating Boyfriend

    5. Take care of yourself

    “I was cheated on by my boyfriend. I don’t know what to do!” Well, taking care of yourself is probably the most important tip on how to get over a cheating boyfriend. A cheating partner can trigger feelings of self-doubt and insecurity, damaging your mental health. You are bound to lose trust in him. During this difficult time, it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being. Anita recommends practicing self-love and engaging in self-care activities that bring you joy and comfort. Focus on:

    • Eating healthy meals
    • Reconnecting with loved ones
    • Exploring hobbies you enjoy
    • Physical exercise
    • Meditation and mindfulness
    • Spending time in nature

    She says, “Shift your focus toward setting new goals, pursuing your passion, and envisioning a bright and fulfilling future for yourself.” Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms, like excessive drinking or engaging in risky behaviors, to cope with the emotional turmoil of betrayal trauma. Instead, focus on your overall well-being. Engaging in activities that promote self-love and self-care can aid in healing.

    Related Reading: 11 Signs Of Low Self-Esteem Behaviors In A Relationship

    6. Seek professional help

    Struggling to figure out what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you? Therapy can help. Whether you decide to stay or move on, individual therapy can be incredibly beneficial. A licensed marriage or relationship coach can provide a safe space to explore your feelings and help you navigate your conflicting emotions and make decisions about moving forward.

    Anita explains, “A qualified therapist can offer a safe and non-judgmental space for the individual to explore their emotions, process the betrayal, and gain clarity about their needs and values. Therapy can help them understand the impact of the infidelity on their self-esteem, trust issues, and future relationships. Additionally, it can guide them on setting healthy boundaries, coping with grief and loss, developing resilience, and empowering them to make informed decisions about their future.”

    If you decide to stay in the relationship, she recommends consulting a couples therapist to “help both of you talk about your feelings and figure out how to move forward”. A relationship coach can help both of you work through the underlying issues that may have contributed to the infidelity. They can facilitate conversations that might be too challenging to navigate alone and help restore the lost trust if you both choose to stay together.

    On Infidelity

    Our expert shares a real-life example of how therapy can help a person get over their cheating boyfriend

    Mira, a young woman from Bengaluru, was shocked when she discovered that Ron, her partner, had been having an affair with a coworker. As a woman deeply rooted in her value system and religion, Mira initially struggled with feelings of shame and embarrassment about the situation, fearing judgment from her family and community.

    However, with the guidance of a sensitive therapist who understood her cultural background and religious connections, Mira found solace in the teachings of her faith, which emphasized the importance of forgiveness and compassion. Drawing strength from her religious scriptures, she chose to confront Ron about his infidelity and seek closure for herself.

    Through self-reflection, Mira embarked on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Today, she embraces her identity as a strong and resilient woman who understands and knows how to live independently.

    Related Reading: Forgiving My Partner’s Infidelity To Reclaim My Life

    7. Decide what’s best for you

    Here is a crucial tip on what to do if your boyfriend is cheating on you — think about what you want. Anita explains, “Take some time to think about whether you want to stay in the relationship or not. Trust your feelings and do what’s best for you. While doing so, consider the 10-10-10 principle. Whatever decision you take, think about how you will feel about it 10 minutes, 10 months, or 10 years later. This would include your plans for the coming future and how they might affect your decision.”

    Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of staying in or leaving the relationship. She explains, “Identify whether the partner is truly remorseful of the behavior of cheating and is willing to rectify it through his actions or is it a pattern that he tends to follow.” Consider your capacity to forgive and rebuild trust. Below are a few questions you should ask yourself before making a decision:

    • Do I still love my partner despite the betrayal?
    • Is my partner willing to change and address the issues that led to him cheating?
    • Can I see a future where I feel safe in the relationship?

    Ultimately, the decision of whether to stay in the relationship or end it is yours alone. Consider your values, needs, and boundaries when making this decision. Your boyfriend cheated on you. Don’t feel pressured to stay in a relationship that no longer serves you. You may have thoughts about wanting to seek revenge and that’s okay, but acting on them will likely prolong your pain and hinder your healing. Below are a few tips that can help, whether you decide to stay or leave:

    If you decide to stay

    • Commit to open communication and transparency.
    • Continue therapy or counseling to address underlying issues.
    • Give yourself time to heal and rebuild trust gradually.

    If you decide to leave

    • Focus on your healing and self-care.
    • Lean on your support system for emotional support.
    • Consider therapy to process the breakup and betrayal.

    Anita says, “Healing from the experience takes time and patience. Therefore, take each step at your own pace and be kind to yourself throughout.” Remember, you deserve to be in a healthy relationship where you feel respected and valued.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How can I stop my boyfriend from cheating on me?

    Unfortunately, you cannot stop another person from doing something they want to. The best you can do is work toward building a healthy, wholesome relationship, build on the foundation of love, respect, and trust, and hope that your boyfriend will honor the commitment he has made to you.

    2. Will he cheat again?

    While the “once a cheater, always a repeater” adage doesn’t ring true for everyone, you cannot discount the possibility that a cheater may slip up again, unless they make the effort to change whatever unhealthy patterns led them to cross the line of fidelity in the relationship. Only by working on underlying issues that triggered the episode of infidelity can the risk be weeded out.

    Key Pointers

    • Discovering infidelity requires you to stay calm, think through your emotions, and gather evidence before making any decision
    • Have an honest conversation with your boyfriend about the infidelity, focusing on feelings without accusations to understand each other’s perspectives
    • Leaning on your support network and seeking professional help can help you deal with your boyfriend cheating on you
    • Setting clear boundaries and rules is essential whether you decide to stay in the relationship or end it
    • Prioritizing self-care and taking time to decide what’s best for you can help you heal and move forward, whether you choose to stay or leave the relationship

    Final Thoughts

    “My boyfriend cheated on me.” This realization can be devastating, but knowing what to do if your boyfriend cheats on you can empower you to take control of your life and well-being. Whether you choose to stay and work through the issues or to move on, prioritizing your mental health and self-love is essential. Keep in mind that you are not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you through this difficult time.

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    Ask Our Expert

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  • How Long Should A Relationship Break Be? A Therapist Answers

    How Long Should A Relationship Break Be? A Therapist Answers

    Let’s face it. Relationships can be extremely overwhelming and draining at times. Especially when you and your partner are unsure of the way forward, need to gain clarity regarding your life goals, or simply need a break from each other to figure things out. But how long should a relationship break be to make things work? More importantly, are you sure your relationship will work for the better if you decide to take a break? Or are you wondering how to take a step back in a relationship and still be in touch?

    In this article, we will explore such questions about relationship breaks and more, with the help of counselor Ruchi Ruuh (Postgraduate Diploma in Counseling Psychology), who specializes in counseling for issues related to dating, infidelity, marital conflict, and divorce. We will also get a gist of the relationship break rules. So, let’s not wait any longer and dive straight in to find out if hitting the pause button on your relationship is a good idea and when…

    What Does Taking A Break Mean In A Relationship

    Studies by the Gottman Institute suggest taking a break to avoid or better manage and resolve conflicting situations in relationships may be a good idea indeed. In fact, such studies believe you can “love smarter” when you choose to take a breather to reassess the relationship, make the relationship work, or get back on track.

    But what does taking a break mean in a relationship or imply for couples? Ruchi explains, “Taking a break means one or both people in the relationship deciding to step back from the romantic aspect of the relationship but maintaining some sort of limited communication. It can also mean spending time away from your partner but regrouping for just a designated amount of time periodically.” So, in a way, breaks offer temporary respite from relationship issues. 

    Stepping back from a relationship can be tough

    Can a break help a relationship?

    So, now we know that breaks are normal and not such a big deal in relationships. But can a break help a relationship to grow or change in a positive way, or does it harm it in the long run? Do such breaks lead to stronger bonds? What are some valid reasons to take a break in a relationship? Ruchi offers a good look at how such breaks are beneficial to relationships:

    • A break allows both the individuals involved to seek and understand the relationship and assess the relationship dynamics and personal issues. It thus helps you find answers to questions such as, “Is your relationship healthy?”
    • It allows for personal growth, and partners can look for nurturing themselves individually
    • Taking a break can also help people in creating some sort of boundaries, be it physical or emotional, which might help them reevaluate the relationship, which wouldn’t have otherwise been possible
    • Breaks allow people to spend time gaining clarity about their personal goals, values, and needs and find out if they align with those of their partners’
    • Breaks also help people realize and address issues such as relationship instability that may cause the relationship to suffer in future
    • Breaks can help a couple go through the sudden changes of an uncalled-for long-distance relationship due to a job change or relocation

    Related Reading: 25 Most Common Relationship Problems And Their Solutions

    How Long Should A Relationship Break Be — A Therapist Reveals The Answer

    Now that you have the answer to what does taking a break mean in a relationship, are you wondering, “How long should a relationship break last?” A Reddit user, who has taken a break in a relationship, narrates her tale, “My husband and I took a break for 7 months. It was helpful in some ways and damaging in others… in the end we both missed our life together and decided to be back together and we are still together. I can say, I wish I would have never taken the break… there were things that we both did while apart that was damaging to our relationship now. But on the other hand… what if we didn’t take a break? Maybe we would have never started to appreciate each other again…”

    Related Reading: 5 Reasons Why Taking a Break in A Relationship is Healthy

    In her case, the break was moderately long and lasted for months. Thankfully, it made both her and her husband realize the importance of their relationship. But how long do such breaks last really? And how long should a relationship break be for it to be impactful? Is there ‘a one size fits all’ timeline? 

    Infographic on how long should a relationship break be
    Breaks in a relationship

    Ruchi says, “Breaks in relationships can last for a few days, weeks, or even months, and depends on quite a few factors. The main factor that determines the period of the break is the reason why a couple is seeking the break and their own needs and expectations from it.” She then goes on to differentiate between a few such cases:

    1. A break to understand the complexity of the relationship – A few months

    The answer to how long should a relationship break last can be tricky. A break that is intended to find out the root causes that are harming the relationship can last for several months. 

    Ruchi says, “One of the reasons to take a break in a relationship is to ascertain the causes behind trust issues or difference of values, where a couple needs to sit down and explore the issue and address the concerns.” In such cases, both the partners may need ample time for self-reflection, therapy, or even speaking to confidantes, friends, and family. 

    Almost everything will work if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.

    – Anne Lamott

    2. Breaks for personal growth – A few weeks

    A lot of people take breaks for personal growth, or to focus on themselves. Such breaks may be shorter. They may last for a few weeks. Ruchi says, “In such cases, people can go for a short solo retreat to explore themselves better before getting back with their partners.” 

    Related Reading: Expert Tips – How To Reconnect After A Relationship Break

    3. A break to deal with work-related stress – A few weeks to months

    At times, as Ruchi says, “One of the reasons to take a break in a relationship may be to deal with work-related issues.” Such breaks may last anytime from a few weeks to months. They may even be longer, depending on the complexity of the work/project. 

    My cousin, Andrea, faced a similar issue. She felt she could not juggle too many balls at once, and decided she needed time to handle a particularly stressful time in her professional life before rejuvenating her relationship with her husband.

    4. Breaks to establish boundaries – A few weeks

    If a couple is struggling with boundaries, it may consist of one person having the need for constant communication, which gets overwhelming for the other person. Ruchi says, “So, if the other person can’t deal with the communication overload, they may need enough time to get back into their shell and process their feelings. This can be a short break, after which the other person gets back with enough self-reflection and new ideas to enforce boundaries in the relationship.”

    how long should a relationship break last
    How long should a relationship break last?

    5. Breaks to reconsider commitment – A few weeks to a couple of months

    One of the reasons to take a break in a relationship could be the need to reassess the commitment. Couples with one partner in a perpetual commitment phobia can also take breaks. If you’re often left asking, “How long should a relationship break last?”, well, remember, in such cases, such breaks may last from a few weeks to a couple of months. 

    So, both partners get enough time to re-evaluate the relationship and decide whether they wish to commit long-term. Ruchi says, “Such breaks should only end when both have decided whether they are confident to go ahead with the relationship or drift apart.”

    Relationship Break Rules To Make It Work In Your Favor

    Sharing her reasons for going on a relationship break, a Reddit user says, “My SO wasn’t ready to commit for long term without exploring his “bachelor” side. We were apart for 2 months, and he asked for me back after going on some dates and realizing I was the shit.

    “Yes, I trust he didn’t do anything else, and even if he had, that was part of the understanding. There was never an obligation to resume the relationship, but we agreed it’s what we both wanted.”

    Related Reading: How To Deal With Taking A Break In A Relationship – 7 Rules

    So, you see, a break in a relationship without any intention can be meaningless. Ruchi says, “There’s no use of a break if you don’t know why you’re taking it and how it can help you.” So, one must be certain of the cause of such breaks.

    Here are a few relationship break rules that Ruchi shares to make such breaks work, especially if you’re in a long-term relationship. So, if you’re clueless about how to take a step back in a relationship and still make it work, read on:

    • Define the purpose of the break: It’s crucial to discuss the goals, concerns, needs, and expectations associated with the break, so that both understand and are on the same page
    • Set a timeline: It’s wise to not make the separation indefinite or ambiguous. Whether it should last for a week, a month, or 6 months, determine a timeline, as that will help you both gain clarity. Both partners would know when to regroup and talk about the future of the relationship
    • Set boundaries: It’s very important that you communicate to each other how you want to keep in contact during the temporary separation or break. For instance, set ground rules about communication ideas, like a phone call every other day, a good morning text, or video calls. Likewise, communicate whether seeing other people is allowed
    • Respect each other’s personal space and independence: While it’s important to maintain connection, you should also avoid excess communication or intrusiveness during the break. Let them pursue their personal goals and make sure that your boundaries are also respected
    • Avoid misunderstandings: If you decide to go no-contact for a long time, make sure that you’ve had an open communication about it with your partner. Also make sure they don’t misunderstand a temporary break as a breakup and seek romantic solace somewhere else. Avoid misunderstandings in a healthy way

    Related Reading: 15 Signs You Need a Break From Relationship

    • Use the break for self-improvement: Work on personal growth and self-care. Try and achieve work goals, go on a holiday, seek therapy, spend time with friends, or pursue a hobby. But make sure you don’t waste the time the break offers
    • Seek emotional support: Often one partner is enthusiastic about a break, while the other isn’t. If you’re feeling left out, because this isn’t something you wanted, seek support from family, friends, or a therapist. Seek their perspective, guidance, and emotional support
    • Regroup: If needed, check on each other and regroup from time to time, even within the break, to see if things are going on track. Stay connected in some sort of way
    • Understand that the relationship might change after the break: Whether it’s a brief break or a long one, be aware that when the break ends, your values, thoughts, and priorities might change. Both partners should be ready for these changes to happen. The break may make you a better person or may make you take realistic decisions not based on emotions. Be ready to accept the change to avoid shock and take care of your mental health. You can opt for couples therapy if you want.
    Relationship Advice

    Key Pointers

    • What does taking a break mean in a relationship? It implies hitting ‘pause’ on the romantic aspects and taking time apart to focus on the bigger picture
    • A break in a relationship can make or break the relationship in the long run
    • How can a break help a relationship? By allowing for personal growth and the time and space to comprehend the relationship
    • How long should a relationship break be? It depends on the couple and their intentions
    • Some clear rules to be followed in relationship breaks are: defining the need for the break, being on the same page, setting boundaries, and avoiding misunderstandings

    Relationship breaks can work like magic in some cases. But if not handled properly, they may lead to permanent cracks even in a healthy relationship, eventually leading to the relationship ending on a sour note. The success of a break depends on a lot of soul-searching and introspection. 

    Blaming the other person for all the relationship issues isn’t going to work. Instead, pausing the relationship to realize the real issues plaguing the relationship can be beneficial. After all, what’s the point of a break if it doesn’t reveal a few things about you and the relationship. We hope, through this article, we have been able to answer your burning questions such as “How long should a relationship break be?” or “Do relationship breaks really help?” Remember, it’s eventually you and your partner who are to decide the terms and length of the break and how to take a step back in a relationship and still get back together.

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  • Experience a Romantic Weekend in Chicago

    Experience a Romantic Weekend in Chicago

    Planning the perfect romantic weekend doesn’t always mean jetting off to a far-flung destination. Sometimes, the most unforgettable experiences are right in your backyard. Chicago, with its stunning skyline and vibrant culture, offers countless opportunities for romance. From scenic bike rides along the lake to intimate dinners at award-winning restaurants, the city has everything you need to create cherished memories.

    Imagine starting your day with a stroll down The Magnificent Mile, exploring historic sites and luxury boutiques. Lunch at a cozy spot like The Purple Pig, sharing small plates and savoring the moment, sets the tone for a day filled with love. As evening falls, the city’s romantic restaurants and cocktail bars with sweeping views provide the perfect backdrop for an enchanting night out. Whether it’s the charming Gold Coast area or a luxurious hotel stay, Chicago knows how to set the mood for love.

    Planning Your Romantic Weekend in Chicago

    Opt for a weekend in Chicago to explore breathtaking views, delicious food, and luxurious stays.

    Choosing the Right Time to Visit

    While Chicago charms in any season, the ideal times are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). Mild temperatures and colorful scenery create a perfect romantic backdrop. Summer festivals and winter holiday lights also offer unique experiences. For fewer crowds and lower rates, consider a mid-week visit.

    Related Reading: Travel For Two: Tips For Planning Exotic Couples Trip

    Getting Around the City

    Navigating Chicago is straightforward with its efficient public transportation. The “L” trains and buses cover most attractions. For a more intimate experience, rent bikes and ride along the Lakefront Trail. Taxis and rideshare services keep travel stress-free. Many luxury hotels, like those in the Gold Coast area, are centrally located, making walking a viable and scenic option.

    Romantic Accommodations in Chicago

    Exploring romantic hotels in Chicago adds an extra layer of charm to any weekend getaway. Whether you’re seeking cozy, boutique lodgings or lavish, luxury options, Chicago offers accommodations tailored to create unforgettable experiences for couples.

    Boutique Hotels for a Cozy Stay

    Boutique hotels provide an intimate and charming environment, perfect for a romantic weekend. Chicago Athletic Association transports guests to a centennial library with wooden bookshelves and fireplaces in The Drawing Room. Sip on your favorite drink and snack on a meal while soaking in the historical ambiance.

    For a unique experience, check out the Hyde Park neighborhood’s literary-themed Sophy Hotel. Decorated with local art and bookish charm, it’s a perfect spot for a cozy, thoughtful stay. Another excellent choice is the Publishing House Bed and Breakfast. Nestled in the West Loop, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with gourmet breakfasts and personalized service.

    Luxury Options for Ultimate Comfort

    For those wanting ultimate comfort, Chicago’s luxury hotels offer top-tier amenities and romantic settings. The Four Seasons Chicago, located near Michigan Avenue, offers exclusive experiences like the Skylight Swim. Enjoy private access to a 50-foot indoor pool and jacuzzi, champagne, and canapés, making it an unforgettable night.

    At the Park Hyatt, diners at NoMI Kitchen savor fresh American contemporary cuisine with stunning views of Lake Michigan. The window tables are among the city’s most romantic dining spots. The hotel itself is renowned for its luxurious rooms and impeccable service.

    Another remarkable choice is The Langham, Chicago. This hotel features elegant, spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. Pay a visit to the Chuan Spa for rejuvenating treatments, adding a relaxing touch to your romantic weekend. Anchoring any romantic weekend in Chicago, picking the right accommodation sets the stage for creating lasting memories.

    Activities for Couples in Chicago

    Couples looking to ignite their passion will find an array of romantic activities in Chicago. From stunning architecture to intimate dining venues, there’s something for everyone.

    Explore the City’s Architecture and Parks

    Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers and breathtaking parks offer perfect settings for romantic strolls and memorable moments. Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, provides scenic walking paths and art installations. For those who appreciate architecture, the Chicago Riverwalk showcases the city’s impressive skyline and historical buildings. Walking along the Lakefront Trail gives couples picturesque views of Lake Michigan and the city’s horizon.

    Related Reading: 5 Reasons Why You Should Travel With Your Partner

    Enjoy Intimate Dining Experiences

    Chicago’s dining scene is rich with intimate venues perfect for couples. Geja’s Cafe, known for its cozy ambiance and four-course fondue dinners, has been a favorite for over 50 years. Couples can enjoy exquisite selections like beef tenderloin, lobster tail, and sea scallops. For French cuisine lovers, Bistro Campagne offers a warm interior and a charming outdoor patio, ideal for a romantic evening. A variety of Michelin-starred restaurants and rooftop eateries also provide unique dining experiences with stunning views of the city.

    Take a Scenic Boat Tour

    A scenic boat tour on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan offers couples unparalleled views of the city’s architecture and skyline. These tours allow an intimate setting while learning about Chicago’s history and landmarks. For a more romantic touch, evening cruises provide breathtaking views as the city lights reflect on the water. Whether it’s a daytime architectural tour or a sunset sail, a boat tour is a quintessential Chicago experience for couples.

    Evening Entertainment for Two

    Chicago offers many options for a romantic evening out. Enjoy fine dining, live music, or a comedy show for a memorable night with your special someone.

    Related Reading: 27 Road Trip Games For Couples That Make Travel More Fun

    Discover Jazz and Live Music Venues

    Chicago’s jazz scene is legendary. One of my favorite spots is the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. This historic venue, once frequented by Al Capone, boasts an intimate setting perfect for couples. For a modern twist, try Andy’s Jazz Club where talented musicians deliver electrifying performances nightly. If you’d rather have a diverse mix of genres, check out the House of Blues. Located near several romantic hotels in Chicago, it offers a vibrant atmosphere and a full dinner menu, making it a one-stop spot for both dining and entertainment.

    Laugh Together at a Comedy Show

    For those who prefer laughter, Chicago’s comedy scene won’t disappoint. The renowned Second City is a great place to start. Known for launching the careers of numerous comedians, this theater presents top-notch improv and sketch comedy. Another venue, Zanies Comedy Club in Old Town, offers an intimate setting with frequent performances by stand-up comedians. It’s a cozy place to share a night of laughter and create lasting memories.

    Unforgettable Romantic Gestures

    Creating memories through heartfelt gestures adds a special charm to any romantic weekend. Chicago offers numerous opportunities for expressing love in unique ways.

    Stroll Along Lake Michigan at Sunset

    A walk along Lake Michigan at sunset provides a breathtaking backdrop. The serene water, accompanied by the changing hues of the sky, creates an ambiance that’s both calming and romantic. Lakefront trails offer convenient routes for leisurely walks. For an added touch, consider visiting Millennium Park located nearby. Holding hands as you explore this iconic area amplifies the experience.

    Related Reading: Tips To Travel On A Budget: Cheap Travel Hacks

    Visit the City’s Iconic Observation Decks

    Observation decks in Chicago offer unparalleled views of the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan. The Skydeck at Willis Tower and 360 Chicago at the former John Hancock Building provide sweeping views from staggering heights. Standing together while observing the bustling city below makes for a memorable moment. If timing permits, try visiting during sunset to witness the city transition into night, enhancing the romantic atmosphere

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  • 150 Thinking Of You Quotes For Your Special Someone

    150 Thinking Of You Quotes For Your Special Someone

    When you have that special someone in your life — be it a spouse, a romantic partner, or even a crush — their thoughts take up a lot of your mind space. Wouldn’t it be great to let them know how their thoughts catch you unawares and make you long for them? A perfect way to let someone know how special they are to you and deepen your connection. But do you find yourself falling short of words to sum up your emotions? These thinking of you quotes fill the gap and lend voice to your feelings.

    In this vast and eclectic mix of quotes to let someone know you are thinking of them, you’re sure to find a selection that perfectly sums up your emotions. Whether you’re looking for thinking of you messages for him, being there for someone quotes, sentimental quotes to send to your girlfriend, or romantic thinking about you messages for your SO, we’ve got you covered.

    Thinking Of You Messages for Him

    Men appreciate heartfelt and straightforward expressions of affection. So, if you’ve been looking for thinking of you messages for him, it’s best to lead straight from the heart and let him know exactly how you feel. Whether he’s near or far, these messages are crafted to touch his heart and remind him of your deep affection:

    thinking of you messages for him
    1. “If you’re wondering whether I’m thinking of you, the answer is yes.”
    2. “Just a quick reminder: You mean the world to me, and I always think of you!”
    3. “Even when I’m swamped, my thoughts escape to be with you.”
    4. “With every sunrise, my mind drifts to you, and my heart follows.”
    5. “Every song I hear reminds me of how often you’re on my mind.”
    6. “I’m smiling because you’re in my thoughts right now, and that’s the best place to be.”
    7. “I caught myself getting lost in thoughts of you. It’s my new favorite hobby.”
    8. “I hope you’re thinking of me as often as I am of you… which is every second.”
    9. “Even the busiest days can’t keep my mind off you.”
    10. “You’re the reason for my joy and the thoughts of you are my best moments.”
    11. “Every beat of my heart whispers your name. Can’t stop thinking about you.”
    12. “You’ve occupied my thoughts and honestly, I don’t want you to leave.”
    13. “Wishing I was there with you, but since I can’t, I’m just thinking about you instead.”
    14. “Every heartbeat seems to beat stronger when I think of you.”
    15. “You’re not here, but you’re right here in my heart and my thoughts.”
    16. “Thinking of you and counting the days until we meet again.”
    17. “Just in case you forgot today: I’m thinking about you, as always.”
    18. “Whenever I struggle to smile, I just close my eyes and think of you.”
    19. “You’re like my most favorite song; I could think of you all day long.”
    20. “Hey, just wanted to tell you I’ve been thinking of you. Okay, more like daydreaming, but still.”

    Related Reading: How To Increase Love In A Relationship: 11 Tips From A Therapist

    Famous thinking of you quotes for him

    If you’d prefer some tried and tested words to let your man know how much he’s on your mind, use these famous quotes as your thinking about you messages for him:

    1. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” – Miles Davis (Musician)
    2. “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, my garden would be a park.” – Alfred Tennyson (Poet)
    3. “Wherever you go, you are with me.” – Richard Bach (Writer)
    4. “I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart) wherever I go, or whatever is done, you are still the one.” – E. E. Cummings (Poet)
    5. “They say home is where the heart is. You are my home.” – Stephanie Perkins (Author)
    6. “To be away from you is to be seasick without the sea.” – Emily Dickinson (Poet)
    7. “I dwell in possibility.” – Emily Dickinson (Poet)
    8. “When I think of you, I think of kindness, wisdom, and love. Thanks for being you.” – Sam Crow
    9. “Maybe if you can’t get somebody out of your head, they’re supposed to be there.” – Mollz
    10. “When I think of you, I think of kindness, wisdom, and love. Thanks for being you.” – Sam Crow
    thinking of you text for her
    thinking of you text for her

    Looking for sentimental quotes to send to your girlfriend? Or the perfect thinking of you text for her that will make her feel special and loved? Or being there for someone quotes that hold the promise of eternal togetherness? These text ideas will work like a charm to pull at her heartstrings and let her know how much she’s on your mind:

    Related Reading: How To Woo A Girlfriend? What Does It Mean To Woo Someone

    1. “Every time a thought of you crosses my mind, my heart skips a beat.”
    2. “You’re my favorite daydream.”
    3. “I caught myself smiling for no reason, then I realized I was thinking of you.”
    4. “Your laugh is my favorite sound, and your name is my favorite noun.”
    5. “Thinking of you keeps me awake. Dreaming of you keeps me asleep. Being with you keeps me alive.”
    6. “I found myself smiling without reason, and then I realized I was thinking of you.”
    7. “You are the reason I look down at my phone and smile. Then I walk into a pole.”
    8. “Just knowing you’re in the world makes me happy. But knowing you’re thinking of me? That’s on another level.”
    9. “If thoughts were a currency, I’d be the richest person on earth, because you’re all I think about.”
    10. “Whenever I struggle to smile, I just close my eyes and think of you.”
    11. “Thinking of you is like the sun on a cloudy day—always lighting up the shadows.”
    12. “Is it crazy that just one thought of you brightens up my entire day?”
    13. “If my thoughts were ink, I could write a novel about you every day.”
    14. “Just a text to let you know that you’re my favorite thought.”
    15. “Every time my heart beats, it sends a message of my love for you.”
    16. “I’m smiling because you’re the reason behind it.”
    17. “A thought of you is like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy day.”
    18. “I’m carrying thoughts of you wrapped in my heart.”
    19. “If each thought of you were a flower, I could walk in my garden forever.”
    20. “I hope your day is as wonderful as the thoughts you inspire in me.”

    Related Reading: 15 Compliments For A Man’s Smile To Make Him Smile More

    Famous thinking about you messages for her

    Stir in an element of nuance and romanticism with these famous I can’t stop thinking about you quotes for her, and make long for you just as much:

    1. “She walks in beauty, like the night / Of cloudless climes and starry skies; / And all that’s best of dark and bright / Meet in her aspect and her eyes.” – Lord Byron
    2. “You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you.” – Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
    3. “Doubt thou the stars are fire; / Doubt that the sun doth move; / Doubt truth to be a liar; / But never doubt I love.” – William Shakespeare
    4. “Take away your allure, and you steal my sun.” – Victor Hugo
    5. “She was a wildflower in a world of roses.” – Dolly Parton
    6. “In her smile, I see something more beautiful than the stars.” – George Clooney
    7. “For you see, every day with you is a holiday.” – Nicholas Sparks
    8. “They say home is where the heart is. You are my home.” – Stephanie Perkins
    9. “To be away from you is to be seasick without the sea.” – Emily Dickinson
    10. “I dwell in possibility.” – Emily Dickinson

    Related Reading: 23 Thoughtful Messages To Fix A Broken Relationship

    Sweet Thinking Of You Quotes for Your Crush

    sweet thinking of you
    sweet thinking of you

    A crush is all about those exciting feelings of longing and sweet anticipation. That’s what makes this budding phase of a romance so special and exciting. With these sweet thinking of you quotes for your crush you can stir up the same emotions in the object of your affection as well:

    1. “Each time my phone lights up, I hope it’s a message from you, bringing your brightness into my day.”
    2. “Thinking of you feels like catching a glimpse of a shooting star—fleeting, rare, and totally magical.”
    3. “If I could plant a star every time I thought of you, the night sky would be a little brighter.”
    4. “Whenever I find myself smiling at my phone, it’s because I’m thinking of your texts.”
    5. “I catch myself pausing in the middle of the day just to savor thoughts of your laughter.”
    6. “Every song I hear reminds me of you, and how sweet life could be if you were singing along.”
    7. “You’ve occupied my thoughts, and honestly, I never want to evict you.”
    8. “If thoughts were bubbles, I’d be floating away by now, buoyed by dreams of you.”
    9. “Just a little thought of you and my day instantly gets better. Thank you for this magical effect on me.”
    10. “Are you a wizard? Because whenever I think of you, all my troubles disappear.”
    11. “If there were a penny for every time you crossed my mind, I’d be the richest person in the world.”
    12. “Just thinking of you brings a smile to my face. A big, silly, uncontrollable smile.”
    13. “You might be out of my sight, but a day hasn’t gone by without you in my thoughts.”
    14. “I wonder if you think of me half as much as I think of you—I sure hope so.”
    15. “Every time I think of you, my heart dances to the rhythm of hope and possibilities.”
    16. “In the garden of my life, my thoughts of you are like vibrant flowers blooming bright and beautiful.”
    17. “If my thoughts were an ocean, you are the treasure hidden beneath its waves.”
    18. “You’re the ‘ping’ to my phone, the unexpected smile in my day, the thought that carries me through the tough times.”
    19. “Just sending a little thought your way, wrapped in all the wishes of my heart.”
    20. “You’ve turned my thoughts into a wonderful place to be—filled with memories of your smile and laughter.”

    Related Reading: 31 Intriguing Psychological Facts About Love

    Famous thinking of you quotes for a crush

    Can’t think of the right words to convey how much your crush is on your mind no matter where you are or what you are doing? Use these famous thinking of you quotes to your advantage and win your crush’s heart:

    1. “In case you ever foolishly forget: I am never not thinking of you.” – Virginia Woolf
    2. “If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden.” – Claudia Adrienne Grandi
    3. “I’ve tried so many times to think of a new way to say it, and it’s still I love you.” – Zelda Fitzgerald
    4. “My thoughts are free to go anywhere, but it’s surprising how often they head in your direction.” – Perez Hilton
    5. “I think about you often, and it’s always a pleasant distraction.” – Richelle E. Goodrich
    6. “I think about you constantly, whether it’s with my mind or my heart.” – Albany Bach Reid
    7. “I am waiting and hoping and wishing for the time when we can be together again. Thinking of You…” – James
    8. “So, here I am, all by myself, thinking of you—no one else. There’s a feeling inside and as hard as I try, it just won’t go away.” – Angel Hema
    9. “Absence from whom we love is worse than death, and frustrates hope severer than despair.” – William Cowper
    10. “Between a million yesterdays and a million tomorrows, there’s only one today. And I would never let it pass without telling you I’m thinking of you.” – Mitch Cuento

    Related Reading: 100 Rizz Pickup Lines To Up Your Flirting Game

    Romantic Thinking About You Quotes for Your SO

    romantic thinking about you
    romantic thinking about you

    The right words can capture the depth of your feelings for your SO and express the profound love you harbor for them. One of the best ways of doing that is to let them know they’re on your mind, whether you’re near or far. That’s exactly what these romantic thinking about you quotes for your SO convey:

    1. “In every heartbeat, I find another reason why you’re my incessant thought.”
    2. “Every night, the stars align to spell out your name in my thoughts.”
    3. “The thought of you brings a calm no storm can disturb.”
    4. “I find your essence weaving through my daily thoughts, binding my heart to yours.”
    5. “Every sunset reminds me of you, and how the colors of my world are brighter with you in it.”
    6. “Thinking of you is my heart’s way of reminding me how much I love you.”
    7. “I smile more often now, and it’s all because thoughts of you are a constant happiness in my life.”
    8. “Each thought of you fills me with such warmth, it’s like the sun decided to shine just for me.”
    9. “Your love lingers in my thoughts like a serene melody that never ends.”
    10. “Even on the busiest days, my mind wanders off to the tranquillity of thinking about you.”
    11. “You live in my dreams, but even more so in my reality because I think about you all the time.”
    12. “Whenever I think of you, my day turns into the sweetest day ever.”
    13. “I carry thoughts of you like precious gems, treasured and close to my heart.”
    14. “You’re not just in my thoughts during the idle moments; you’re also in the midst of the chaos, bringing peace.”
    15. “With every thought of you, I love you more. That’s why you never leave my mind.”
    16. “It’s not just that I think about you, it’s that these thoughts of you make everything better.”
    17. “Your love dances through my thoughts, turning ordinary moments into poetry.”
    18. “Every thought of you feels like a page from a fairy tale I want to read over and over.”
    19. “Whenever I think of you, my heart skips a beat, as if it’s just you and me in this world.”
    20. “My thoughts of you are like a soothing melody that comforts my soul.”

    Related Reading: 100+ Heart-Melting I Miss You Messages For Him

    Famous romantic thinking of you quotes for your SO

    Certain expressions of love and longing have been etched in time forever. In every age and era, these classics capture the emotions of romantic love perfectly. Let these famous romantic thinking of you quotes be the carriers of your feelings for your SO:  

    1. “I saw that you were perfect, and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were not perfect and I loved you even more.” – Angelita Lim
    2. “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” – Emily Brontë
    3. “I think of you, and I can feel you in my entire being.” – Steve Maraboli
    4. “My heart dances with joy when I think about you.” – Debasish Mridha
    5. “The simple lack of her is more to me than others’ presence.” – Edward Thomas
    6. “I think about you constantly, whether it’s with my mind or my heart.” – Terri Guillemets
    7. “You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought.” – Arthur Conan Doyle
    8. “In case you ever foolishly forget: I am never not thinking of you.” – Virginia Woolf
    9. “You are the one girl that made me risk everything for a future worth having.” – Simone Elkeles
    10. “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you…I could walk through my garden forever.” – Alfred Tennyson

    I Can’t Stop Thinking About You Quotes

    I can't stop thinking about you quotes
    I can’t stop thinking about you quotes

    When you’re hopelessly smitten or deeply in love, “I can’t stop thinking about you” becomes a constant background score underlying every moment of your life. These I can’t stop thinking about you quotes capture the power of those unyielding thoughts:

    Related Reading: 125 Sweet, Thoughtful, Heartfelt Words to Make Her Feel Special

    1. “Every minute apart feels like hours, and every hour feels like days. I can’t stop thinking about you.”
    2. “No matter where I go, or what I do, I’m in a perpetual state of thinking about you.”
    3. “Day and night, you’re on my mind. Constantly, like an unending melody.”
    4. “You are my last thought before I drift to sleep and the first when I wake up. Always, endlessly, you.”
    5. “Like a star in the night sky, thoughts of you shine the brightest in the darkest moments.”
    6. “If thinking of you was a job, I’d be the most dedicated worker.”
    7. “Your name is etched in my mind; your face, forever in my thoughts.”
    8. “I catch myself smiling alone, lost in thoughts of you. It’s a habit now.”
    9. “With every heartbeat, echoes a thought of you.”
    10. “Thinking about you is like breathing. It can’t stop, and it’s essential for my survival.”
    11. “If there’s a thought I could live in, it would be one where you are with me.”
    12. “You’ve captured my mind. It’s a perpetual state of you.”
    13. “Each day is just another page of my mind filled with thoughts of you.”
    14. “You invade my dreams, and I find myself waking up smiling because I was thinking about you.”
    15. “The thought of you adds a touch of beauty to my everyday life.”
    16. “My mind wanders and always heads in your direction.”
    17. “I’m addicted to my thoughts of you. They’re my escape and my reality all at once.”
    18. “You are the permanent resident of the secret place in my mind where I find peace.”
    19. “In the library of my mind, books about you are the most worn-out from constant reading.”
    20. “Every thought of you feels like a poem, written in the ink of love.”
    on romance

    Famous quotes to let someone know you can’t stop thinking of them

    When you think you are running out of ways to let that special someone know how much you love them and how often they’re on your mind, these famous I can’t stop thinking about you quotes can come to your rescue:  

    Related Reading: A Complete Guide On The 10 Stages Of Falling In Love

    1. “You’re on my mind now and always. You are the sweetest song that only my ears can hear.” – Kirito
    2. “I think about you constantly, whether it’s with my mind or my heart.” – Albany Bach Reid
    3. “You are always in my thoughts. When I think of you, when I miss you, it is like I am lost without you but have direction with you.” – Shah Asad Rizvi
    4. “My thoughts are free to go anywhere, but it’s surprising how often they head in your direction.” – Perez Hilton
    5. “I’ve tried so many times to think of a new way to say it, and it’s still I love you.” – Zelda Fitzgerald
    6. “Thinking of you is easy—I do it every day. Missing you is the heartache that never goes away.” – Michael Pryce
    7. “In my thoughts of you there is an underlying love that is present in every thought itself.” – Edgar Cayce
    8. “Every now and then my heart wanders back in time and all those old feelings awaken the memories in my mind.” – Fad Ibra
    9. “I am thinking about you. When I look in your eyes and they swallowed me. They have turned the floor underfoot and mixed my head. Your look is simple but too much to be able to submit.” – Sophieya
    10. “I think of you with every waking moment of my life and dream of you with every dream that I have; I miss you.” – Kong Moua

    A heart-rendering thinking of you text for her. Quotes to let someone know you are thinking of them. A sweet thinking of you message dropped out of the blue. A romantic thinking about you quote to brighten up your SO’s day. These are not mere words. They hold the promise of love, a hope of togetherness. So, use these thinking of you quotes generously and often to cement the bond you share with that special someone in your life.

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  • 11 Perks Of Dating A Tomboy And How To Make It Work

    11 Perks Of Dating A Tomboy And How To Make It Work

    When you see a tomboy in shredded jeans, huge headphones hanging around her neck, and her messy ponytail showing every sign of minimal to zero effort, what’s the first thought that comes to your mind? “She is hot!” – maybe. “I want to wife her up” – probably won’t crack your top ten. Instead of thinking about dating a tomboy, most men would rather challenge her to a round of pool. And there’s a good chance she will destroy you at it! 

    That’s the reality of tomboy girls, for the most part. Misunderstood and often overlooked when it comes to establishing romantic connections. So, if you are here to gather pointers on tomboy dating, our first tip would be to approach this romantic connection with a lot of compassion. What does that entail, you ask? We help you navigate the intricacies of dating a tomboy, with insights from counseling psychologist Dhriti Bhavsar (M.Sc, Clinical Psychology), who specializes in relationship, breakup, and LGBTQ counseling. 

    What Are Tomboy Girls Like? 

    You must already know that being a tomboy is not a person’s gender identity. It’s a way of life defined by the characteristic traits of an individual – how they act, talk, socialize, and dress up. Since these traits are perceived as essentially masculine, the girls who display them are labeled boyish. Because let’s face it, when has our society ever been able to handle ‘out of the box’?

    Dhriti elaborates, “Gender roles play a huge role in the psyche of a tomboy girl. Usually, it manifests in the way of rebelling against strictly enforced gender norms. This shows up typically in girls whose families hold very rigid norms on how a girl should look and act, and often discourage, punish, or scold the tomboy girl for her boyish interests. This can make her double down on her tomboyish ways to keep doing the things she genuinely enjoys. 

    “Some reject femininity due to a lack of good female role models they can look up to. Kids grow to emulate the gender norms of the same-sex parent because they look up to the parent. Certain kids see how their mothers, sisters, and friends live through the restrictions, lack of freedom, and thankless responsibilities and decide they want none of that — and who can blame them!”

    Related Reading: 20 Tips To Get Close To A Girl And Win Her Heart

    Before we delve further into the nitty-gritty of dating a tomboy, here are some of the trademark qualities that most tomboys often adhere to:

    • They are confident in their skin and abilities 
    • They are always one of the guys because that’s less drama 
    • They are adventurous with a go-getter attitude and speak straight from the shoulder
    • Unlike other girls, they resent anything pink, a girly dress or high heels, and of course, makeup
    • They are more into sports and beer than Hello Kitty and Chanel purses 
    • Valentine’s Day gifts, prom nights, marriage, parenting — chances are a tomboy won’t be into any of these 
    Tomboy girls have great confidence and a go-getter attitude

    11 Perks Of Dating A Tomboy

    Not every tomboy comes across as ‘appealing’ at first sight given that they lack the typical feminine elements that men have been conditioned to consider attractive. So, it all boils down to how much time you spend getting to know her. Because boy oh boy, once you do, there’s no turning back!

    According to Dhriti, there are quite a few reasons why men find tomboys attractive. “You will have plenty of shared interests to bond over with. Tomboy girls are often good at taking up and dishing out challenges. Not to say that hyper-feminine women aren’t, but tomboys aren’t concerned with coming across as soft-spoken or sweet. She can take care of herself, and she’ll be good at fighting for herself and you too,” she says. Sounds fascinating? Let’s continue the discussion and talk about 11 perks of dating a tomboy:

    Related Reading: 40 Cute Things To Do With Your Girlfriend At Home

    1. She gets ready super quick 

    You are about to go out to run some errands. Your girlfriend says, “Hey babe, I will be ready in five.” And guess what, she actually does! Isn’t that every guy’s dream? She won’t take half an hour to pick the perfect outfit and another half on makeup and accessories. Slip into a pair of jeans and a baggy shirt and she is all set. How can you not fall madly for this girl?

    2. There is no pretense — she is what she is

    Authenticity is part of the package with her. These women are so confident in their skin, doing their own thing, they have hardly a care for the world. She can step into a high-end restaurant in her regular clothes ignoring all the stares and still make an impression. Get this, she might just lick the foil of the brownie you got her if that’s what she likes. When you are with her, you get to see a 100% genuine person. Since she is not desperate for men’s validation, or anyone’s for that matter, she has nothing to hide. 

    3. She is low-maintenance 

    This may appeal to you if you are rather laid-back in your dating approach — not always up for putting in the effort. Tomboy girls don’t need a lot of looking after or pampering to feel content and happy in a relationship. No need to plan elaborate date nights or spend a fortune on expensive presents for her. Fix her with some ramen at home, put her favorite movie on, and keep a couple of video games handy, and she will have the best time.

    Related Reading: How To Keep Calm When Your Girlfriend Talks To Other Guys

    4. Loving girlfriend minus the drama

    Oh, I am sure you men are all sick with the girlfriend drama. The other day, my friend Justin dropped by just to complain about his girl for an hour. (Talk about nagging, huh?) Apparently, Julia locked herself in her room and won’t come out, won’t even eat. Just as he was about to give up asking, “What’s wrong?”, she revealed that the previous night, she was upset after watching a movie and he didn’t offer her a comforting hug. We promise, your tomboy partner would never put you through such Justin-Julia dramas. 

    5. She can surprise you on the romance front

    Perhaps, you think because she is a tomboy, she doesn’t know the first thing about romance. Well, hold your horses, my friend. She may not be a ‘roses and romantic dinners’ enthusiast. But she will spend days looking for the first edition of your favorite book and get a signed copy for your birthday. On date night, she might take you to the coziest nook in the city that she loves and bring a picnic basket of homemade sandwiches and beer. Now does it sound like you will miss out on romance when dating a tomboy? We didn’t think so. 

    6. Tomboys are hot – whenever they decide to bring it on

    Don’t be fooled by her tomboy cap and Crocs. She can clean up real nice and when she does, you will have to pick up your jaw off the floor. Her rugged attitude mingled with the raw beauty is sure to fire up the floor. Just wait until she decides to bring her A-game on and you would want to watch her forever.   

    Related Reading: What Is Romance To A Man – 13 Things Men Find Incredibly Romantic

    7. No long, tedious hours of shopping 

    When you are with a tomboy, she won’t drag you to the Home Depot for a pot and then leave after three hours maxing out both of your credit cards. Dress shopping with her won’t be any more complicated than a short tour to Macy’s or Target. Rest assured, the shopping shenanigans aren’t at all extravagant or taxing with a tomboyish girl. 

    8. She understands you better

    She might be a girl but she has a natural gift of connecting with men. A girly girl may get mad if you plan a boys’ night two weekends in a row or be furious if you forget your anniversary. But a tomboy has the rational capacity to understand a man’s perspective on things. She would understand the need for individual social circles even when you’re in a relationship and offer you ample space to breathe. 

    9. Her sense of humor is impeccable

    To be more specific, her sense of humor is closer to that of a guy. Together you can share a good laugh at someone’s fake accent. She won’t be offended by the typical guy jokes. And the memes she sends you are next-level funny. Fair warning, she is the queen of sarcasm. She will tease you a lot but yes, she can also take a hit like a sport. So, to laugh and be laughed at, date a tomboy. 

    10. Watch or play — she is your ultimate sports buddy

    Imagine this – the Rangers game is on tonight (and you absolutely can’t miss it) but you are supposed to hang out with your girlfriend. Now that’s a pickle! In any other scenario, we would suggest you keep your plans with your girl, check the scores on your phone, and leave it at that. But with a tomboy, this dilemma wouldn’t even exist. We bet she is also hesitating to tell you that she wants to catch the game too. Just talk and straighten things out with her. If anything, she will love you even more after this. We tell you, whether it’s watching sports or playing Minecraft, you won’t find a better companion than a tomboy girlfriend.   

    11. You get an amazing friend in her

    These girls are super chill, humble, and easy to connect with. You can speak your mind without worrying about, “What if she thinks less of me?” Plus, she will be a hit among your guy friends. The way a tomboy can break the ice is uncanny. Before you know it, she will be a ‘bro’ and you will definitely have your friends’ blessings for dating this amazing girl.  

    Related Reading: 21 Ways To Be A Better Partner For A Better Relationship

    How To Attract A Tomboy — 5 Ways

    Do men like tomboys? YES! A tomboyish girl can be a good friend, an even better companion to watch sports with. And men in general think tomboys are hot. But when it’s a matter of the heart, guys tend to hesitate before making a move. Sometimes they are intimidated by the girl’s confidence; sometimes they are unsure of her romantic inclinations because tomboys are usually not desperate for men to like them.

    However, that doesn’t mean they’re not open to or interested in the possibility of a romantic connection taking root. A Quora user says, “As a tomboy, I like both feminine men and manly gentlemen. I like looking at beautiful things. I want a man that takes good care of himself and is self-aware. I like being reminded of my femininity but also learning how to do things better and with him.” 

    Dhriti says, “Chances are, she’s not used to people doing things for her or taking care of her. Showing some consideration can go a long way. Have a good sense of humor, don’t be afraid of poking fun at her but be ready to be made fun of later.” So, empathy and understanding — that’s what you need to attract a tomboy. Oh wait, we have a couple of more ideas to share:

    • To grab a tomboy’s attention, you need to appreciate and admire her for exactly who she is. Tell her how cute she looks in that messy bun and her brother’s oversized hoodie!
    • Bond with her before dropping the L-word. Given her interests are all about bikes, sports, hiking, rock music, or something to that effect, we are sure you won’t have to try too hard to find a common interest
    • Make a note – nothing captivates a tomboy more than intellectual, engaging conversation
    • Don’t change yourself to fit into her ‘boyfriend’ criteria. When you are all for her genuineness, you should present yourself in the same light too 

    Related Reading: 25 Ways To Keep A Conversation Going With A Girl

    7 Tips For Dating A Tomboy Successfully 

    Responding to the question, “Do men like tomboys?”, Dhriti says, “What people find attractive is highly subjective and is based on many factors like personal tastes, past experiences, emotional connect, intellectual stimulation, and even genetics to some extent. Tomboys have their charms, and dating one takes a man who is secure in his skin.”

    On that note, Dhriti shares a few insights from our readers who are trying to figure out how to treat their tomboy girlfriend right. “Your girl might have some things to learn and unlearn when it comes to gender roles and identity. Be patient with her, and become her safe space by not expecting her to be a certain way. She might also struggle to be transparent with her feelings. You may need to put in some work to foster open and honest communication, particularly about emotion. There’s something you should remember: vulnerability encourages vulnerability.” In addition to this, here are some tips you need to be mindful of to master the art of tomboy dating:

    More on dating tips

    1. Remember she is not a damsel in distress 

    Unlike a girly girl, your tomboy girlfriend won’t jump around the house at the sight of a cockroach or ask you to come over to help fix her kitchen tap. She is brave and independent enough to tackle any minor or major inconvenience on her own. If you were hoping to swoop in as her knight in shining armor, you would be disappointed more often than you thought. Dhriti suggests you learn to recognize that her being strong-headed and self-reliant is not a challenge to your masculinity. It’s just who she is. 

    2. Don’t assume things for her

    Just because most tomboys are into sports and gadgets, it’s a likely conjecture that she would want to watch the Super Bowls with you over some girly TV soap. And it would be mighty inaccurate of you to conclude something for her without so much of a conversation about her likes and dislikes. Being a tomboy doesn’t restrain her from taking a bubble bath and watching Gossip Girl. So, Dhriti suggests, “Keep an open mind and don’t shame her for her interests – masculine or feminine.”

    Related Reading: 6 Ways To Be More Empathetic In A Relationship According To An Expert

    3. Don’t keep suggesting modifications in her demeanor 

    Be honest here. Didn’t you fall head over heels with her when she absolutely smashed you in that arcade game? You both hiked miles together in the rain, smeared in mud and the smell of the woods. You even went fishing together. You had all the pieces of the puzzle to see her in her entirety. Now that she is your girlfriend, you can’t ask her to switch to a feminine alter-ego. Remember, you cannot build a long-term relationship unless you both show up in your genuine persona.  

    4. Nurture her competitive nature

    Competitive is the middle name of almost every tomboy girl. From beating your high score in Mario Kart to doing more push-ups than you in the gym, she will always keep you on your toes. When you are dating a tomboy, remind yourself to take these challenges in a constructive light. At the end of the day, you are on the same team and you can’t let these silly trials take an upper hand on your relationship. 

    Related Reading: 15 Ways A Woman Wants To Be Treated

    5. Accept the fact that she just gets along well with guys 

    If you are in a relationship with a tomboy or thinking of getting into one, you have to keep a rein on your jealous streak. There will inevitably be other guys around her as tomboy girls are seen hanging out with their guy friends more often. If you get jealous or ask her to cut ties with a good friend, you are forcing her to become a person she is not. So, the trick here is to befriend her gang and be a part of their conversations. You will see there is nothing to be threatened of.  

    6. Treat her the way you would have treated a girly girl on a date

    A tomboy is still a girl at the core and won’t mind being treated like a queen. She won’t fight the idea of a candlelight dinner or getting each other flowers once in a while. In fact, you can go that extra mile and make a grand romantic gesture to sweep her off her feet. Although, we must warn you, don’t make a show out of it in front of her friends or colleagues or you will never hear the end of it. 

    Related Reading: How To Woo A Girlfriend? What Does It Mean To Woo Someone

    7. Try to understand her love language 

    Romantic lovey-dovey words, hugs, and kisses don’t come easy to tomboy girls. So, we expect you to pay closer attention to her countenance and actions. You will see love in her eyes even if she doesn’t express it in so many words. She may not make cute scrapbooks with your pictures but she will fix your broken computer for you or rearrange your records by genre. You just need to be receptive because she speaks the language of ‘acts of service’ when showing her love for you. 

    Key Pointers

    • Tomboy girls are devoid of all the usual girly drama and the chase for the perfect outfit and makeup
    • One of the perks of dating a tomboy is that they are low maintenance, easier to make happy, and content
    • You don’t need to spend hours waiting for her to get ready or holding shopping bags outside the changing room
    • Tomboys have similar interests and sense of humor to that of a man
    • She is capable of understanding your guy issues like no one else which makes her a good friend and an amazing girlfriend

    Congratulations, now you know the whole nine yards of dating a tomboy. Before we part, here’s a pro tip: if you have a crush on that pixie girl in your class who barely knows your existence, don’t give up before you try. Make your way through her life, and give her and yourself a chance to know each other. With the universe in your corner, she won’t be able to resist your charm and all your efforts. Once she does, the ball comes back to your court. And you know well how to make that girl feel seen, loved, and appreciated. 

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  • The Couple’s Guide To Buying the Perfect Sofa Bed: How To Find the Right Sofa Bed for Your Space

    The Couple’s Guide To Buying the Perfect Sofa Bed: How To Find the Right Sofa Bed for Your Space

    Picture this: It’s a cozy Saturday night, and your friends eagerly call for a movie marathon. You have the popcorn ready and the laughter filling the living room, but there’s just one thing missing — A guest room.

    Enter the brilliant sofa bed, your night-time savior. This multifunctional marvel effortlessly transforms from a comfortable couch by day to a soft, inviting sleep sanctuary by night. With its array of sizes and upgrades, it adapts to your needs seamlessly, adding a touch of charm to your home.

    Getting the right sofa bed becomes even more essential for couples who adore curling up with a good book. Imagine snuggling on a plush sofa, engrossed in your favorite novels. As the evening progresses, your cozy reading nook transforms into a haven of rest, perfect for drifting off into dreams with the one you love. But how do you choose the perfect hideaway solution that looks stunning in its sofa and bedforms?

    This guide is designed to arm you with all the tools you need to navigate the world of sofa bed shopping. Envision your home boasting a piece of furniture that’s as versatile as a transformer, blending form and function with effortless grace.

    To make your decision-making process a bit easier, we delve into the most important factors — Capacity, utility, and style. These points of judgment will help ensure that you find the perfect sofa bed solution, one that will make your home even more inviting and delightful for those intimate reading sessions, and beyond.

    Understand Your Area

    Before you get too ahead of yourself with plush cushions or sleek designer furniture, step back and look at your living space. Check and double-check the space you have available to be sure it will allow for both the footprint of the sofa and all necessary clearances while unfolding it.

    Measure your available space 

    Many considerations must be taken into account. See how traffic will flow through the space. When opened, will the bed block any pathways? Drawing a layout on paper is pretty beneficial in terms of visualization.

    Related Reading: 10 Ways To Redecorate Your Home

    Size Matters For Snug Singles Or Family Sleepovers

    Many sizes of sofa beds fit a variety of needs. For studio apartments, we have options that are specifically twin-sized or good for occasional guests, and full-sized/queen-sized options for a sofa bed that requires more sleeping room. The same goes for a king-sized sofa bed, which will require substantial floor space if you host families or couples regularly.

    The Real Heros — The Mechanism

    The unfolding mechanism is its soul — The soul of a sofa bed, so to speak. This one, if good enough, ensures comfortable use for many years without any problem of wear and tear! Select the smoothest, easiest-to-use unit. 

    Opt for strong metal hinges and pass on anything that will easily get stuck or that seems cheap and plastic. Why not show the metamorphosis at your store too? A couch that turns into a bed and goes back to being a couch with minimal effort will save time for everyone involved.

    Related Reading: Proper Sleep – The Secret Sauce To A Healthy And Happy Marriage

    Comfort Is King (Or Queen)

    Everyone can agree to this — If I sleep entirely lumpy, then nobody would like that in the morning. Spend a little extra on the sofa bed and get the best quality mattress that supports your back. Innerspring mattresses have the most traditional feel while memory foam slowly cradles your body to relieve pressure. 

    Mattress thickness

    A slightly thinner profile may save space, but rest assured, a thicker mattress guarantees you a comfortable night’s sleep.

    Speaking of frame materials: From duct tape to iron-built

    The frame is what supports your sofa bed. Solid metal frames guarantee years of use, and hardwood choices provide you with a classic touch. Lightweight frames are likely to wobble or buckle under stress, so they should be avoided.

    Upholstery Selection: Dress For The Occasion

    It’s more than just eye candy, the choice of fabric. Consider your lifestyle before you make a purchase. There are animal and kid-friendly options too, which are made from leather or faux leather and can be cleaned easily. Textiles come in many colors and textures, and some need special care. Choose the covers which are removable and washable to ensure ease of maintenance.

    Style and aesthetics, of course

    Don’t compromise on style! There are many designs of sofa beds to choose from, ranging from classic and traditional right up to modern contemporary. Select a design that fits well with your furniture and how you want your home to look. Why not opt for an elegant futon if you’re going for a minimalistic look? Or if you want to add a luxurious flair, choose something velvet plush.

    Related Reading: How Sleeping In Separate Beds Made Them A Happier Couple

    Your Bonus Features: Look At The Extras

    Other sofa beds have more features which make them highly functional. Hidden built-in storage ottomans are perfect for a couple of blankets or pillows. You can opt for ones that have cup holders or armrests for better functionality.

    This is why it’s important to understand this piece of furniture in practical terms. Keep the comfort, operation, and style of your sofa bed as a priority to ensure that your life integrates with it easily. A smart choice allows you to enjoy a stylish place to sit during your daytime get-togethers AND is also an enveloping comfort zone for overnight guests. I mean, who wouldn’t want a good design award-winning sofa bed in the first place? Now that you know what to look for, you too can get your award-winning transformer sofa bed!

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  • Will He Come Back After Silent Treatment? 15 Ways To Make Sure He Does

    Will He Come Back After Silent Treatment? 15 Ways To Make Sure He Does

    Imagine you’ve just had a huge fight with your SO and you end up breaking up for a while, trying to give each other some space. But when he sends you a “hi” after a few weeks, you simply refuse to reply or show him love. You don’t receive his phone calls either and skilfully leave his texts and DMs on ‘seen’ even after a month. Well, you’ve basically mastered the art of the silent treatment. But will he come back after silent treatment? And will he miss you if you keep ignoring him this way? How strong is the power of silence after breakup? 

    Silence is a powerful tool but should be used wisely. In this article, we’ll delve into questions about the effectiveness of the silent treatment on men. We’ll not only find out what they think during the silent treatment but will also unearth ways to make him miss you and make sure he gets back again. So, if you’re not sure about how to make a guy miss you after a breakup or are wondering, “How do I make my ex miss me with the silent treatment?”, let’s begin without much ado…

    What Does A Man Think When A Woman Goes Silent

    Well, if you’ve ever given your man the silent treatment after a breakup, you must be wondering if it had any impact on him at all. Here’s what a Reddit user feels about the silent treatment: “If you mean silent treatment as no contact, that’s usually the best way for the dumped to move on and stop thinking about the relationship. If you’re talking about the dumper it’s probably so they don’t have to face the guilt of breaking up and hurting the other person. Or just blatant indifference, who knows? Everyone is different and has different reasons and motives for not wanting to talk.”

    Related Reading: The Right Way To Use Power Of Silence After A Breakup

    So, are you too wondering what your man thinks when you go silent after the two of you have parted ways? Will it make him sad? Will he feel guilty? Will he want to reach out? Are you often wondering, “How do I make my ex miss me with silence?” Let’s look at a few possibilities of what a man might think when you go silent:

    • He may end the chase: What makes an ex come back is a true concern. So, while some men may be genuinely interested in knowing what you’re going through, others, who aren’t too emotionally involved in the relationship, might end the chase and stop bothering you because they just aren’t that into you. So, a simple answer to what an emotionally unavailable man thinks during the silent treatment is that he probably doesn’t care anymore
    • He may be scared to follow up: We often find women complaining that they get a lot of unwanted attention. And in such cases, where you’ve given your man the silent treatment, he may be scared that he’ll end up making a fool of himself if he gets in touch again. So, he may just stop following up
    • He may be happy with his space: Your man might actually be able to think about the relationship clearly once you’ve given him the silent treatment. He may get the time required to process your reaction and may actually be thinking of getting back after he realizes his mistake
    • He may be curious: Often, guys end up realizing your value after you’ve given them the silent treatment. So, it’s likely that your man may suddenly stalk you more on social media, start talking again, or start liking or commenting on your pictures after a week or so, as he may be curious to know how you’re doing without him
    • His ego may be hurt: Once you hurt a man’s ego with the silent treatment, there are two possibilities. One: he may withdraw and not reach out at all, and two: he may start calling you or texting you to make amends, but after a certain time has passed. Either way, he will be wondering if he still has a chance with you
    For more expert-backed insights, please subscribe to our YouTube channel

    Use Silence To Make Him Miss You When He Pulls Away

    So now that you know what a man thinks when you go silent, let’s look at a few answers to your burning question, “How do I make my ex miss me when he pulls away?” Well, the silent treatment, if used in moderation, can be a great way to make your true emotions felt and your value evident. 

    And will he come back after silent treatment? It depends on a lot of factors. You see, silence is a powerful tool but it must be used mindfully lest it turns into a toxic cycle of playing games to hurt him or a mere stonewalling tactic. As a study has proved, the silent treatment can go a long way in disrupting the sense of “belonging, self-esteem, control, and meaningful existence” of the person at the receiving end.

    Related Reading: 8 Benefits Of Silent Treatment And Why It’s Great For A Relationship

    So, are you often wondering, “How to make him miss me, without hurting him”? Well, we have a few tips for you to use the silent treatment the right way. Here they go:

    • Don’t make it the norm: If you have no idea how to make a guy miss you after a breakup, well, take our word for it. Don’t overdo it. While silence may work once in a while, if it becomes a habit and the no-contact rule is overdone, you can rest assured that you have deeper issues to take care of. Also, repetitive use of silence may make you predictable and may not always be successful in making him come back. In extreme cases, it may backfire, and he may go silent altogether. This may make you wonder, “Why is my boyfriend giving me the silent treatment?”
    • Keep family and friends out of your dynamic: In your bid to figure out “how to make him miss me when I go silent”, don’t let a third party influence your decision. While it’s a good idea to hang out with your family and good friends when you’re using silence to make him miss you, don’t make the mistake of making your decisions blindly, based on their advice. Take your own call about when to respond and when not to. This is how you can make him miss you when he pulls away
    • Be silent only when the relationship is healthy: So, you broke up and now want to make him miss you. But are you sure you’re not using silence with the wrong partner and inviting more trouble? Consider the reasons why you two had a tiff. Was it something that can be sorted out or something more bitter such as physical harm or gaslighting? Remember, silence only works in healthy relationships and what makes an ex come back is genuine love/romantic feelings. Dysfunctional relationships need professional guidance, and you shouldn’t play games for a quick-fix
    • Be active on social media: They say, “Out of sight, out of mind.” And rightly so. The no-contact rule works well when you’re doing everything that you used to do together, but just not with him, and are intelligent enough to make him know about it. So, you may meet your male friends, go on a shopping spree, catch up with school buddies at the movies, or enjoy a sumptuous meal at your favorite restaurant. Make sure you post all of this on social media and keep your accounts public. He’s sure to stalk you and miss you 

    Related Reading: 8 Things That Ruin Relationships And You Don’t Even Realize it

    Will He Come Back After Silent Treatment? 15 Ways To Make Sure He Does

    Will he come back after the silent treatment? Well, the power of silence after a breakup grows manifold if you use it wisely. In case you do want him to get in touch with you, follow a clear strategy, free of negativity and focused on problem-solving. 

    But how does one make sure he gets back after receiving silence from you? My friend, Ayesha, once called me up to share the pain of a temporary breakup with her ex-boyfriend, Rick. As she narrated her ordeal, she sighed, “Will my ex come back?” Three months later, he was back. And not by magic. It was because I shared some tried-and-tested tips with her to get him back. Here I am sharing those tips with you to make the process of winning back your ex easier. So, let’s go through them:

    1. Engage in self-reflection

    Introspect a little

    While you’ve been busy giving him the silent treatment to make him miss you, try and use this lull to think over your reactions and gain a better understanding. The first mistake you may make is to react or make a decision too quickly. Introspect a little and find out how you can make a difference once he gives you a signal he’s going to get back. Ask yourself:

    • Am I ready to forget everything and forgive him?
    • Has he been making the same relationship mistakes too often?
    • Will I be fine with dealing with the same issues again, if he comes back?

    Related Reading: 8 Conflict Resolution Strategies In Relationships That Almost Always Work

    2. Process what went wrong

    Once you’ve started the silent treatment, there’s no going back. But you can be a mature person and process what went wrong in the first place. Jot down the real issues. Why did you two drift apart? Ask yourself:

    • Is it because of the work pressure?
    • Is it because he didn’t share the household/domestic chores
    • Is it because you both have drifted apart as far as your values are concerned?

    3. Opt for healthy communication

    To make sure the silent treatment works to your benefit, try a different strategy altogether. Instead of overdoing the silent treatment, try preparing the ground for open communication with him. Now that you’ve done your homework with regard to what went wrong.

    Related Reading: Communication Problems In Relationships – 11 Ways To Overcome

    4. Set clear boundaries

    Before you ask yourself, “Will he come back after silent treatment?”, you would definitely wish to keep a positive relationship framework ready, in case he does, wouldn’t you? So, set clear boundaries before you welcome him back into your life. Make sure he gets back but lay down some terms. Healthy boundaries could look like this:

    • Making it clear that you aren’t fine with him flirting with your friends or colleagues
    • Laying down some digital detox rules, such as no phones in the bedroom
    • Clarifying your expectations regarding household work

    5. Give him the benefit of the doubt

    Yes, you’re hurt and are terribly disappointed with him. You’ve given him the silent treatment and are now waiting for him to get in touch again. You’re constantly wondering, “Will he come back after silent treatment?”

    power of silence after break up
    Give him the benefit of the doubt after the silent treatment

    So, isn’t it a good idea to give him the benefit of the doubt? Don’t assume he’s rude if he doesn’t contact you right away. Give him some time to process this situation. He’ll probably not call or send text messages but may start showing his willingness to get back by sending you an emoji or heart-reacting to an old post of yours on social media. So, stop judging so soon. 

    6. Seek professional help

    Well, if you think giving him the silent treatment has been tough for you and you still can’t come to terms with the hurt that he’s put you through or you can’t stop fixating on “Will my ex come back?”, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to address your mental health. If you’re considering getting help, Bonobology’s counseling services are at your disposal. 

    Related Reading: Breakup Healing Process – How To Heal After A Breakup

    7. Hurt his ego but not him

    Yes, use the power of silence after breakup till you think he’s not learned his lesson. Don’t answer his calls. Completely ignore his DMs and texts. Make him miss you when he pulls away. Make sure he ends up with his false ego hurt and tattered. But don’t overdo it. Don’t make it a contest of putting him down and make sure you don’t end up hurting his self-esteem beyond repair. This is what you need to avoid when you’re giving him the silent treatment but want him to come back:

    • Social media rants berating him
    • Gossiping about him with your friends and family 
    • Ridiculing him behind his back, and making sure your common friends tell him that

    8. Let him apologize

    Okay, so you’ve stopped texting him or talking to him. But make sure you keep a channel of communication open for him to apologize or make amends. Don’t make the mistake of blocking him everywhere. Make sure you receive his texts, even if you leave them on ‘seen’. This is one of the most effective answers to “how to make him miss me with the silent treatment”.

    Related Reading: 20 Proven Ways To Make Him Feel Guilty For Hurting You

    9. Look for common ground

    How do you get past the hurt and resentment while giving him the silent treatment? Well, to make yourself ready to receive him with some love when he eventually does get back, look for common ground. Think of shared interests or go through your happy memories of the past. Make sure you think positive and don’t overthink and ruin your chances of getting back together later by being too pessimistic or bitter.

    10. Reciprocate if they show any changes

    Has the thought “how to make him miss me with silence” been on your mind a lot? This is understandable. Since you’re not talking to him, how do you make sure he gets back? More importantly, how do you make him realize you want to get him back? By making an effort to reciprocate if he makes it clear he’s ready to change his ways. Well, nobody is asking you to send him lovey-dovey “I miss you” texts right away!  Give him subtle hints instead. Here are some instances:

    • If he’s quit smoking (a habit that irked you) and has put up a social media post about it, go ahead and like it
    • If he’s put up an Instagram story about how he misses you, go ahead and drop a ‘puppy eyes’ emoji

    Related Reading: 7 Strategies To Stop Fighting In A Relationship

    11. Don’t try too hard

    The key to how to make someone miss you and want you back lies in not trying too hard. Of course, you want to give him the silent treatment to make him realize how much he needs you. Of course, you want to show him the power of silence after breakup. But that doesn’t mean you need to accept him with open arms the moment he shows a little bit of interest in you again. 

    So, if he’s sent you a selfie all of a sudden, don’t heart-react it right away. That might make you look like you were trying too hard to get his attention. Leave him on ‘read’ for a couple of days before you respond. After all, just because he’s back, doesn’t mean he values you or wishes to be with you for good. He could just be playing mind games, for all you know!

    Infographic on will he come back after silent treatment
    15 ways to make sure he gets back after the silent treatment

    12. Focus on personal growth and self-care

    Make sure you don’t neglect your own well-being while you’re giving him the silent treatment. So, don’t forget to evolve into your best version and:

    • Go out for solo trips
    • Have girl gang parties on weekends
    • Pamper yourself with some shopping and beauty treatments
    • Hit the gym regularly and take care of your well-being
    • Focus on new hobbies, be it dance, music, or books

    And at the same time, make sure you let him know subtly that you’re having fun without him too. So, put up quirky Instagram posts, Facebook updates, and WhatsApp status messages. Watching you have the time of your life without him will definitely draw him toward you if he really cares. And very soon, you won’t have to wonder, “Will my ex come back to me?”

    Related Reading: Communication Problems In Relationships – 11 Ways To Overcome

    13. Don’t neglect your loved ones

    Another tip to make sure you have him back after the silent treatment is not to neglect your other relationships. So, hang out with your close friends, spend time with your parents, go out with your coworkers – and make sure you post your fun moments on social media. He should know you have other people in your life who care about you. This may make him reevaluate your value in his life. When he does, chances are he will miss you and want to get back.

    14. Pay attention to the details

    Apart from keeping a watch on his reactions to your social media posts, look out for other signs that he wants to get back. For instance:

    • Did he just bump into you at the mall last Sunday?
    • Did he send you a “Hi” by ‘mistake’ in your DMs?
    • If he’s someone you meet every day at work or in college, does he show any change in body language when he’s around you? Does he stare at you often or sit close to you?

    These are signs he wants you back. Make sure you read them and model your behavior accordingly.

    dating problem

    15. Keep an open mind

    Lastly, keeping an open mind is the best bet when it comes to making sure he comes back after the silent treatment. So, instead of drowning in negative thoughts and wondering, “Will my ex come back?”, try and think how and in which ways he can get back. Manifest a reunion, and you’re halfway there! Once he is back or has started talking, try to resolve issues that drove you apart before talking about a reconciliation.

    Key Pointers

    • When you give a man the silent treatment, he may be curious, may withdraw, or may try to contact you, depending on your relationship dynamic
    • When you want to use silence to make him miss you, don’t make it the norm and keep your family and friends out of it
    • Will he come back after silent treatment? Yes, certainly, if you can process what went wrong, opt for open and healthy communication, and set clear boundaries

    Will he come back after silent treatment? Well, we hope after reading this article, you now know that whether silence will make him miss you or not depends entirely on your relationship dynamics. And silence should be used sparingly and keeping in mind all circumstances. 

    In making use of silence to get him back, make sure you don’t end up being emotionally abusive. In short, don’t overdo it. And definitely make him realize that you want him back in your life. Most importantly, don’t step back from moving forward or getting into a new relationship if he isn’t that into you or if your relationship is turning toxic and harming your well-being. So, don’t worry too much about how to make someone miss you and want you back. Be yourself and leave the rest to fate!

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  • How Well Do You Know Your Fiancé? 150 Questions To Help You Assess

    How Well Do You Know Your Fiancé? 150 Questions To Help You Assess

    How well do you know your fiancé? This question is bound to cross your mind at some point, as you head toward the big day and gear up to say, “I do.” Well, it’s not necessarily on account of pre-wedding jitters or cold feet. Curiosity about how well you know that person you’ve decided to spend your life with is only natural.

    After all, none of us can claim to know someone 100%. As Gabriel García Márquez said, “All human beings have three lives: public, private, and secret.” If you have been spending considerable time wondering, “How well do I know my spouse-to-be?”, this exhaustive list of questions we’ve put together for you will help you find the answer. In the process, even give you some new questions to ask your fiancé.

    Apart from offering an insightful revelation into how intimately you know your fiancé, these can also serve as a fun addition to a bachelorette party or pre-wedding festivities. So, dive right in, and discover a treasure trove of how well do you know your significant other questions.

    25 How Well Do You Know Your Partner Questions About Childhood And Family

    How well do you know your fiancé? Can you really make good on this question unless you know all the embarrassing, funny, endearing things about the childhood experiences and family dynamics of the man you’ve chosen to marry? No, right? Put your knowledge to test with these how well do you know your partner questions about his childhood and family:

    1. What was your fiancé’s favorite childhood toy?
    2. Can you name your fiancé’s favorite childhood book or movie?
    3. What was your fiancé’s favorite childhood memory with their family?
    4. Who was your fiancé’s best friend growing up?
    5. What was your fiancé’s favorite subject in school?
    6. Did your fiancé have any pets when they were growing up? If so, what were their names?
    7. What was your fiancé’s favorite family tradition during the holidays?
    8. What was your fiancé’s favorite food as a child?
    9. Did your fiancé have any siblings? If so, can you name them and share something unique about each one?
    10. What was your fiancé’s dream job when they were a child?
    11. Can you name a teacher or mentor from your fiancé’s childhood who had a significant impact on their life?
    12. Did your fiancé participate in any extracurricular activities or hobbies when they were young? If so, what were they?
    13. What was your fiancé’s biggest fear as a child?

    Related Reading: 32 Birthday Gifts For Fiancé — Romantic Gifts For Him And Her

    14. Can you recall a funny or embarrassing childhood story your fiancé has shared with you?
    15. What was your fiancé’s favorite vacation destination as a child?
    16. Did your fiancé have any nicknames when they were young? If so, what were they and how did they get them?
    17. What was your fiancé’s favorite board game or video game growing up?
    18. Can you name a place from your fiancé’s childhood where they spent a lot of time (e.g., a park, a relative’s house, etc.)?
    19. Did your fiancé have any special talents or skills as a child?
    20. What was your fiancé’s favorite TV show as a child?
    21. Can you name a song or type of music that your fiancé enjoyed listening to when they were young?
    22. Did your fiancé have any allergies or health issues as a child?
    23. What was your fiancé’s favorite bedtime story when they were little?
    24. Can you recall a significant milestone or achievement from your fiancé’s childhood?
    25. What was your fiancé’s dream adventure or fantasy when they were a child?

    25 How Well Do You Know Your Significant Other Questions About His Goals And Dreams

    A person’s hopes and dreams are among the most defining attributes of their personality. Naturally, then, these are among the vital things to know about your partner. Do you think you have checked this important box and have asked all the right questions before marriage? Give these how well do you know your significant other questions a chance and find out:

    1. What is your fiancé’s ultimate career aspiration?
    2. Can you name three things on your fiancé’s bucket list?
    3. What is your fiancé’s biggest dream for the future?
    4. If your fiancé could live anywhere in the world, where would they choose?
    5. What motivates your fiancé the most in pursuing their goals?
    6. Can you name a specific accomplishment or milestone your fiancé hopes to achieve in the next five years?
    7. What is your fiancé’s greatest passion in life?
    8. If your fiancé could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
    9. What are some hobbies or activities your fiancé wishes they had more time for?
    10. Can you recall a specific quote or mantra that your fiancé lives by when it comes to achieving their dreams?
    11. What is your fiancé’s definition of success?
    12. Can you name a role model or someone your fiancé looks up to in their field of interest?
    13. What is your fiancé’s take on couples traveling together?

    See how well you know your partners hopes and dreams

    14. Can you describe a dream project or endeavor your fiancé would love to undertake someday?
    15. What does your fiancé envision their ideal lifestyle to be like in the future?
    16. If your fiancé could master one skill or learn something new, what would it be?
    17. What is your fiancé’s philosophy on taking risks and pursuing their dreams?
    18. Can you name a book or movie that has profoundly influenced your fiancé’s perspective on life and their goals?
    19. What is your fiancé’s view on work-life balance and how it relates to their goals?
    20. Can you recall a time when your fiancé overcame a significant obstacle or challenge in pursuit of their dreams?
    21. What is your fiancé’s stance on giving back to the community or making a difference in the world?
    22. Can you name a specific way in which your fiancé hopes to leave a legacy?
    23. What are your fiancé’s thoughts on financial planning and how do they align with their long-term goals?
    24. Can you describe a dream adventure or experience your fiancé has always wanted to have?
    25. What is your fiancé’s ultimate vision for their life and how do they plan to achieve it?

    Related Reading: 25 Questions To Ask Before Marriage To Be Set For The Future

    “How Well Do I Know My Spouse-To-Be?” 25 Random Questions To Assess

    How well do I know my spouse-to-be? The answer to this question may not always be hidden in the big things like their hopes and dreams, ambitions, core values, fears, and vulnerabilities. How they take their coffee, what food they turn to for comfort, and what movie they can watch over and over again can be just as insightful. This selection of some of the most random how well do you know your fiancé questions will test your knowledge of the likes, dislikes, quirks, and proclivities that make spouse-to-be the man he is:

    1. What is your fiancé’s favorite comfort food?
    2. Can you name the first movie you watched together as a couple?
    3. What is your fiancé’s most cherished childhood possession?
    4. What is your fiancé’s favorite way to spend a lazy Sunday?
    5. Can you recall the first gift you ever gave your fiancé?
    6. What is your fiancé’s go-to karaoke song?
    7. Can you name a hidden talent your fiancé has that few people know about?
    8. What is your fiancé’s favorite season of the year?
    9. Can you describe the moment you knew you wanted to marry your fiancé?
    10. What is your fiancé’s favorite scent?
    11. Can you name a place your fiancé has always wanted to travel to but hasn’t yet?
    12. What is your fiancé’s favorite type of weather?
    13. Can you recall the first thing your fiancé said to you when you met?

    things to know about your partnerthings to know about your partner
    It’s important to know randomest of things about the person you’re going to spend your life with

    14. What is your fiancé’s favorite way to unwind after a long day?
    15. Can you name a childhood nickname your fiancé had?
    16. What is your fiancé’s favorite board game or card game?
    17. Do you know how memorable your first date was for your fiancé?
    18. What is your fiancé’s favorite holiday tradition?
    19. Can you name a hobby or interest your fiancé has picked up since you’ve been together?
    20. What is your fiancé’s favorite movie genre?
    21. Can you recall a funny or embarrassing moment your fiancé has experienced?
    22. What is your fiancé’s preferred method of communication when they’re away from you (e.g., phone call, text, video chat)?
    23. Can you name a food your fiancé absolutely cannot stand?
    24. What is your fiancé’s favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
    25. Can you describe the most spontaneous adventure you’ve had with your fiancé?

    Related Reading: Am I Sexually Compatible With My Fiancé?

    25 How Well Do You Know Your Fiancé Questions About His Interests And Hobbies

    What a person takes interest in, the activities that bring them joy say a lot about who they are. If you want to address the “how well do you know your fiancé” question and see if you connect on a deeper level, take a shot at how well you understand their interests and hobbies:

    1. What is your fiancé’s favorite hobby or activity to do in their free time?
    2. Can you name three books your fiancé has read recently?
    3. What is your fiancé’s favorite genre of music?
    4. Can you recall the last concert or live event your fiancé attended?
    5. What is your fiancé’s favorite outdoor activity?
    6. Can you name a specific TV show or series your fiancé is currently watching?
    7. What is your fiancé’s favorite type of cuisine to cook or eat?
    8. Can you describe a hobby or interest your fiancé has that you’ve never tried before?
    9. What is your fiancé’s favorite type of exercise or workout?
    10. Can you name a podcast or YouTube channel your fiancé enjoys listening to or watching?
    11. What is your fiancé’s favorite video game?
    12. Can you recall a memorable trip or adventure your fiancé went on related to one of their hobbies?
    13. What is your fiancé’s favorite type of art or artistic expression?

    Related Reading: 10 Ways To Build Your Relation After Getting Engaged And Before Marriage

    14. Can you name a specific project or DIY activity your fiancé has been passionate about recently?
    15. What is your fiancé’s favorite sports team or athlete?
    16. Can you describe a skill or talent your fiancé has that you admire?
    17. What is your fiancé’s favorite board game or tabletop game?
    18. Can you recall a childhood hobby or interest your fiancé still enjoys to this day?
    19. What is your fiancé’s favorite way to unwind after a stressful day?
    20. Can you name a unique hobby or interest your fiancé has that surprises people when they find out?
    21. What is your fiancé’s favorite type of movie (e.g., comedy, drama, thriller)?
    22. Can you describe a hobby or interest your fiancé is passionate about that you’ve bonded over as a couple?
    23. What is your fiancé’s favorite way to stay up-to-date with current events or news?
    24. Can you name a specific event or gathering related to one of your fiancé’s hobbies that they look forward to every year?
    25. What is your fiancé’s dream hobby or activity they’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet?

    25 How Well Do You Know Your Partner Questions About His Beliefs And Core Values

    Beliefs and core values are among the most crucial things to know about your partner. It defines everything from their personality to the way they interact with the world around them and their ability to establish healthy relationship dynamics. If you have been wrestling the “how well do I know my spouse-to-be” dilemma, we’ve got just the thing you quell your doubts. Give these how well do you know your partner questions about his beliefs and core values a chance:

    1. What is your fiancé’s stance on the importance of family in their life?
    2. Can you name a cause or social issue your fiancé is passionate about?
    3. What is your fiancé’s perspective on spirituality or religion?
    4. Can you recall a moment when your fiancé stood up for something they believed in, even if it was difficult?
    5. What are three words your fiancé would use to describe their values?
    6. Can you name a role model or influential figure your fiancé admires for their values or principles?
    7. What is your fiancé’s opinion on the importance of loyalty in relationships?
    8. Can you describe a situation where your fiancé demonstrated empathy or compassion towards others?
    9. What is your fiancé’s view on the importance of education and continuous learning?
    10. Can you recall a time when your fiancé took a stand against injustice or unfair treatment?
    11. What is your fiancé’s perspective on the balance between individual freedom and social responsibility?
    12. Can you name a book or philosophical work that has influenced your fiancé’s beliefs?
    13. What is your fiancé’s stance on environmental conservation and sustainability?

    how well do you know your significant other questions
    See if you understand your partner’s world view

    14. Can you describe a core value your fiancé holds that you deeply respect or admire?
    15. What is your fiancé’s opinion on the role of technology in modern society?
    16. Can you recall a conversation where your fiancé expressed their views on equality and inclusivity?
    17. What is your fiancé’s perspective on the importance of giving back to the community?
    18. Can you name a tradition or ritual your fiancé values and upholds in their daily life?
    19. What is your fiancé’s stance on the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in life?
    20. Can you describe a moment when your fiancé showed integrity or moral courage?
    21. What is your fiancé’s opinion on the power of forgiveness and second chances?
    22. Can you recall a time when your fiancé challenged their own beliefs or grew from a new perspective?
    23. What is your fiancé’s view on the importance of cultural diversity and understanding?
    24. Can you name a quote or saying your fiancé resonates with that reflects their values?
    25. What is your fiancé’s ultimate goal in life, driven by their core beliefs and values?

    on romance

    25 How Well Do You Know Your Fiancé Love And Relationship Questions

    Given that you’re going to marry the man, awareness about this stance of love and relationships, and all that they entail — commitment, conflict resolution, loyalty, honesty, fidelity — is crucial. See if you know your fiancé as well as you think with these love and relationship questions:

    1. What was your fiancé’s first impression of you when you met?
    2. Can you name three qualities your fiancé values most in a romantic partner?
    3. What is your fiancé’s idea of the perfect date night?
    4. Can you recall the first “I love you” exchanged between you and your fiancé?
    5. What is your fiancé’s favorite romantic gesture?
    6. Can you describe a challenge or obstacle you and your fiancé have overcome together in your relationship?
    7. What is your fiancé’s love language (e.g., words of affirmation, acts of service, etc.)?
    8. Can you name a memorable anniversary or milestone you and your fiancé have celebrated together?
    9. What is your fiancé’s opinion on the importance of communication in a relationship?
    10. Can you recall a specific moment when you knew your fiancé was “the one”?
    11. What is your fiancé’s favorite thing about being in a relationship with you?
    12. Can you name a tradition or ritual you and your fiancé have in your relationship?
    13. What is your fiancé’s stance on the balance between independence and togetherness in a relationship?

    Related Reading: 125 How Well Do You Know Me Questions For A More Intimate Relationship

    14. Can you describe a moment when your fiancé showed unconditional support or understanding towards you?
    15. What is your fiancé’s perspective on the role of compromise in a healthy relationship?
    16. Can you recall a time when you and your fiancé laughed together uncontrollably?
    17. What is your fiancé’s opinion on the importance of trust in a romantic relationship?
    18. Can you name a romantic movie or love story your fiancé enjoys?
    19. What is your fiancé’s favorite memory from your relationship so far?
    20. Can you describe a dream vacation destination your fiancé has mentioned wanting to experience with you?
    21. What is your fiancé’s view on the significance of anniversaries and special occasions in a relationship?
    22. Can you recall a heartfelt gift or gesture your fiancé has given you?
    23. What is your fiancé’s perspective on the idea of soulmates or lifelong partners?
    24. Can you name a lesson or insight your fiancé has taught you about love and relationships?
    25. What is your fiancé’s ultimate vision for your future together?

    We hope these questions give you a concrete answer to the question: how well do you know your fiancé? Even if the results aren’t quite as encouraging as you’d hoped, don’t lose heart. All it means is that you still have things to explore about each other. Use it as an opportunity to ask the right questions to ask your fiancé to get to know him even better.

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  • Flirt.com Review 2024: Comprehensive Guide To Features, Safety, And Flirt User Experience

    Flirt.com Review 2024: Comprehensive Guide To Features, Safety, And Flirt User Experience

    Explore the colorful world of online dating via Flirt.com, a vivid and novel twist on match-making services that allows people who are not looking for commitment or a serious relationship to find like-minded individuals to have a good time with. Created by Cupid plc, one of the most popular dating website owners, Flirt.com in the casual dating community. Here, we focus on every aspect of the service — from the great interface and security features to the other stuff which make Flirt.com really stand out in the crowd.

    Everything You Need To Know About Flirt.com — A Casual Dating Platform

    Flirt.com caters to people who seek the thrill of fleeting romantic connections with no emotional investment. It facilitated anonymous chats without the commitment of a long-term relationship and is focused entirely on one-time romantic encounters. 

    The prime differentiating factor that sets Flirt.com apart from the competition is its non-judgmental atmosphere that allows users to be expressive about their intentions. Here, people could be honest in disclosing their quest for fleeting relationships without the complexities that are common in conventional situations.

    Related Reading: No-Labels Relationship: Does A Relationship Without Labels Work?

    User Experience And Interface

    Flirt.com is powered by a modern interface that offers a neat and user-friendly design for the audience, allowing them to quickly navigate through the site and utilize their time building connections on the platform. The platform aims to be both accessible to users whether they are on desktop or mobile, eliminating any limitations of use. 

    Interface of Flirt.com

    Flirt.com Key Features

    Let’s take a look at the key features that make Flirt.com a favorite among those looking for fleeting romantic moments:

    1. User-friendly features

    With its simple signing up process, Flirt.com allows users to get browsing through dating profiles in a matter of minutes. Such swift configuration familiarizes new users to primary activities like chatting, without having to invest time in superfluous profile creation. 

    People can use basic filters and narrow their searches by employing advanced options based on their preferences. Profiles can be filtered based on age, location, and special preferences. Premium versions allow for more advanced filtering of profiles, making it that much easier to find like-minded matches.

    2. Dynamic interaction

    Users also get a wide range of tools to communicate with their matches. Free members can send winks and unlimited messaging is a privilege of premium users only. The app also offers pre-crafted messages that can be used to initiate conversations with multiple users at the same time. Then, there is Flirtcast, which is designed to help members develop more organic connections.

    Related Reading: 200+ Ideas For A Username For Dating Site — Set Yourself Apart

    3. Usability

    Another advantage of flirt.com is its diversified palette and clear interface. It is designed with easy-to-read text menus and buttons labeled distinctively to make navigation around the site effortless. The platform also offers tools that facilitate enjoyable user interactions. 

    The site is well equipped with tools for communication like private messaging and public chat rooms that are used to engage with the members. It also has safety measures in place to keep the environment secure and trustworthy for its users.

    Flirt Subscription, Free Features, And Services

    Flirt Subscription, Free Features, and Services

    Flirt.com has both free and premium versions. The provider works on the freemium principle, meaning that it enables potential users to register and deal with basic tools free of charge; however, subscription is required to get premium tools. To be able to decide whether a free or paid membership would be more appropriate for you, take a look at what each of these entail:

    Feature Free Membership Premium
    Profile Creation Yes Yes
    Basic Search Yes Yes
    Advanced Search No Yes
    Send Winks Yes Yes
    Unlimited Messaging No Yes
    View Full Profiles No Yes
    Share Photos and Videos No Yes

    Value And Rates

    Cost is by far the most significant factor for the majority of online dating users when choosing a website. Flirt.com offers diverse pricing plans, along with free trials, allowing users to choose one that best aligns with their budget and dating needs. These include:

    • Free Membership: Free with limited features is available, a quick way for potential users to take their first step.
    • Premium Membership: These monthly, quarterly, and annual plans come in three different packages and give full access to essential features such as unlimited messaging, advanced search options, and video chat. The longer the length of the subscription, the more cost-effective it proves to be.

    Related Reading: Looking For The Perfect Headline For Dating Site? 200+ Ideas

    Communication Tools 

    Flirt.com offers several tools designed to make online dating dynamic and engaging:

    1. Direct messaging: A major feature of dating services is interaction through private messages that offers users a safe space to connect. Flirt.com delivers well on this count, offering premium users unlimited messages
    2. Chat rooms: This is a stand-out feature of this dating platform, as it allows users to connect with several potential matches at the same time 
    3. Video chat: For those who seek a more personalized relationship, the video chat function offers face-to-face interactions

    The platform caters to diverse communication styles and approaches thus ensuring a high level of activity and involvement and preventing attrition of the user base, since they. 

    Stories about flirting

    Safety And Security Of Online Dating In Flirt

    Security is a major concern in the online dating community, and Flirt.com recognizes the validity of this concern. It has implemented several measures to protect its users:

    • Profile verification: Email verification minimizes the risk of fake accounts 
    • SSL Encryption: SSL encryption is provided on site to cover all personal data. Therefore, communication and personal information are secured from anyone except for the data owner
    • Moderation and support: Flirt.com employs a staff of moderators who ensure that community members abide by site rules. The support option not only helps in making the environment safer but also improves the user experience through different channels. The platform has comprehensive FAQ sections, direct support options through emails, and chat features available for immediate problems. 

    Related Reading: 13 Major Disadvantages Of Online Dating

    User base and demographics

    Understanding the demographics of Flirt.com helps illustrate the platform’s widespread appeal:

    • Diverse user demographic: The site has users of all age groups, right from people in their teens and twenties to those who are dating in their 50s
    • Global Reach: Flirt.com not only boasts of a wide user base in the US but is also popular across Europe and other parts of the world. This diversity helps to create a rich, culturally vibrant cyber-space 
    User base and demographics

    Flirt.com Review And Success Stories

    Real user experiences offer the best insight into a platform’s quality. To that end, Flirt.com has gathered a number of testimonials from its users, who claim to have got a lot of casual partners and even success in long-term relationships through this site. A huge number of users consider the website to be user-friendly with an adequate quantity of communication instruments.  

    It is important to note that even though Flirt.com mainly caters to the individuals interested in casual dates, there are multiple examples of people finding more meaningful connections through this site. 

    Effectiveness And Engagement In 2024

    Flirt.com is designed to be engaging, with features that encourage active participation. Features like Flirtcasts, bot, and video chat keep users keen and engaged enjoying their dating experience and interaction. The use of an algorithm that analyzes user behavior and preferences to suggest possible matches is this platform’s USP. 

    Related Reading: 20 Valuable Tips For A First Date After Meeting Online

    Is Flirt.com A Good Dating Site?

    Flirt.com stands out among the many casual dating sites owing to its navigation interface, diverse interaction tools, and safety and security protocols. It provides an appropriate network of users who are looking for no-commitment relationships but still would want the excitement and the pleasure of dating.

    The site is one of the best places to look for fun and casual relationships, as it offers a large user base that often is not prejudiced against these types of relationships.

    Users looking for different experiences or features not prioritized by Flirt.com, have a lot of other options to choose from. There are sites like eHarmony and Match.com that predominate more longer-term marriages and high compatibility. And ones like Bumble, where the relationship format is dynamic.

    To sum up Flirt.com offers a powerful tool for all those people who are looking for quick flings. The platform’s guarantee to promote an intuitive interface, built-in effective communication tools and strong privacy protection policy make it an interesting option for those who want to keep their online dating encounters casual.

    Rating of flirt.comRating of flirt.com

    FAQs

    1: How do I sign up for Flirt.com?

    It is quite easy to sign up for the app. Start by going to the registration page, enter your age, location, and email, and then wait for a verification email to activate your profile. The process is designed to not be long or complicated, you can start looking for potential matches within minutes

    2: Do you know what security measures are in the place of Flirt.com?

    The website utilizes SSL encryption to provide security of your personal data, and all the new users are verified through email in order to minimize the amount of fake profiles. Besides, there is a distinctive moderation and filtering which attempts to create a secure dating platform

    3: Can you use flirt.com without paying?

    Flirt.com offers free memberships, using which you can create a profile, find a match and send a wink. However, a premium membership is required to use full-range of services such as unlimited messaging, video , and advanced search functions

    4: How does Flirt.com warranty for the credibility of its users?

    Flirt.com takes stringent measures to assure users’ authenticity during registration. For instance, the email address is verified mandatorily and the moderation team carries out periodical checks of the profiles. This reduces the number of fake profiles in the database

    5: Does Flirt.com work on mobile apps?

    Yes, the website of the company Flirt.com delivers a mobile app that can be easily installed on Android and iOS operating systems. The app comes with all the functions of the web version

    6: How would I cancel my subscription to Flirt.com and what are the options?

    Cancellation is instant. You can discontinue using this app at any time through your account settings or by simply contacting customer support

    7: What’s the best way to respond if I see a shady profile on Flirt.com dating site?

    If you see a sketchy profile or if someone behaves inappropriately, you should report it to Flirt.com’s customer service at once. Security features like investigation and appropriate measures like profile removal are aspects of the platform. These are aimed at creating a safe environment for online dating

    8: Will I be able to look up a singular user or group of users on Flirt.com?

    Premium members have access to advanced filters that allow them to sort through the user base based on their preferences. This enables you to adjust your search outcome and increases the chance to find someone you have more in common with.

    Contributing Author

    Ruby Gardner – Women’s Dating Expert – is a renowned relationship specialist and expert in women’s dating. With a strong educational background in psychology and human relationships, Ruby completed her studies at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley. Her passion for understanding the complexities of human connections led her to specialize in relationship counseling, with a focus on women’s dating experiences.

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  • Exploring The Dynamic Journey Of Online Nursing Programs And Personal Relationships

    Exploring The Dynamic Journey Of Online Nursing Programs And Personal Relationships

    The landscape of nursing education has evolved significantly in recent years, with the rise of DNP psych NP programs online and other digital learning opportunities. These programs offer aspiring nurses the flexibility to balance their studies with personal relationships and other commitments. The dynamic journey of pursuing a nursing degree online while navigating the complexities of personal life is a unique and challenging experience.

    How Students Balance Family, Work, And Online Nursing Education

    Embarking on an online nursing program requires a fine-tuned balance, especially when managing family life and professional duties. Students often master the art of time management to navigate this challenging but rewarding landscape. A typical day might start with preparing kids for school and studying, and end with fulfilling job duties. Integrating study schedules with family life requires precise planning, like reviewing notes during a lunch break or engaging with online resources after the children’s bedtime. These strategies are essential adaptations that help students succeed in multiple roles.

    Effective communication is another critical strategy for students balancing their online nursing education with family and work commitments. Setting clear expectations with loved ones about study time and obligations helps maintain a supportive home environment. At work, proactively discussing educational pursuits with supervisors can lead to flexible scheduling or study time accommodations. Open, honest communication across all fronts is key to successfully juggling multiple responsibilities.

    The Role Of Support Systems In Online Nursing Degrees For Busy Professionals

    Online nursing programs are supported by solid mentoring and advice designed specifically for remote learners. Universities provide extensive academic guidance to ensure student success from day one. Students can connect with a network of peers for coursework discussions and experience sharing, enriching the learning process. Additional career resources and clinical placement assistance highlight the commitment to student achievement. These support structures facilitate academic performance and build community and belonging, despite physical distances.

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    In addition to institutional support, the role of family and friends cannot be underestimated in the success of busy professionals pursuing online nursing degrees. A supportive spouse who takes on extra household responsibilities or a friend who offers encouragement during challenging times can make all the difference. Building a personal support network that understands and champions educational goals is invaluable for staying motivated and on track.

    The Emotional Journey From Application To Graduation

    The journey through an online nursing program is emotionally rich and educational. It often starts with mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness — returning to an academic routine after possibly a long break. Navigating through numerous deadlines, exams, and clinical requirements can be intense, yet achieving each milestone brings immense satisfaction and confidence. Celebrating these victories, such as passing a tough exam or receiving positive clinical feedback, provides personal pride. Ultimately, the act of graduating is a celebration of numerous fulfilled dreams and hard-fought achievements.

    Amidst the emotional highs and lows, online nursing students also undergo significant personal transformations. The rigorous academic journey fosters resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. Students learn to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and develop a greater sense of self-efficacy. These personal evolutions extend beyond the educational realm, positively impacting all areas of life.

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    How Online Nursing Programs Strengthen Local Communities

    Graduates from online nursing programs are well-prepared to contribute to local health systems, bringing newly acquired skills and updated knowledge. They often become key contributors in their healthcare settings, driving initiatives that promote community health. The positive impact of each graduate’s dedication and knowledge revitalizes local healthcare environments, showcasing the far-reaching effects of online nursing education and stretching its significance from the individual to the community level.

    Online nursing programs also play a vital role in promoting health equity in local communities. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address disparities and provide culturally competent care. They become advocates for underserved populations, working to break down barriers and ensure access to quality healthcare services. By strengthening the nursing workforce, online programs contribute to building healthier, more equitable communities.

    The Significance Of Clinical Placements In Online Nursing Education

    Clinical placements are integral to online nursing programs, bridging the gap between theory and practice. These placements are expertly organized to expose students to real medical scenarios under professional supervision. They not only enhance clinical competence but also help build important professional relationships. Trainees often meet mentors and future colleagues during these placements, leading to career opportunities and lifelong friendships. Moreover, interactions with patients and staff during placements strengthen communication and empathy, which are crucial for nursing success.

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    As we delve into the complex interplay between pursuing an online nursing career and maintaining robust personal relationships, it is evident that these paths, though demanding, are profoundly rewarding. Successfully balancing both leads to significant personal growth and a meaningful career dedicated to caring for others.

    Clinical placements also provide opportunities for personal and professional self-reflection. Through hands-on experiences, students gain insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. They learn to adapt to diverse healthcare settings, think critically under pressure, and develop their unique nursing identity. These reflective practices lay the foundation for lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement, essential qualities for a successful nursing career.

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  • Balancing Love And Learning: How Online Degrees Can Strengthen Relationships

    Balancing Love And Learning: How Online Degrees Can Strengthen Relationships

    In a fast-paced world, balancing personal relationships and educational goals can be tough. However, comprehensive online programs, such as those from Rockhurst University, help couples support each other’s career aspirations while also addressing potential mental health issues that may arise during the learning process. This blend of learning and partnership nurtures mutual respect and support and offers financial benefits to the family.

    Role Of Online Degrees In Strengthening Relationships

    In this day and age, you don’t necessarily have to step out of the comfort of your home to pursue your dreams. For those in committed, long-term relationships this can be a huge blessing. Here’s why:

    1. Flexibility in online learning

    One significant advantage of online education is flexibility. It allows learners to arrange their study time around family commitments. For example, in a family where one partner has demanding work hours, online programs allow the other partner to adjust their study schedule to manage family life effectively. Learning from home also means that couples, especially those with children, can share responsibilities, which strengthens family bonds.

    The asynchronous nature of online learning allows students to access course materials, lectures, and discussions at their convenience. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for couples juggling multiple responsibilities. By having the freedom to study during their most productive hours, whether early in the morning or late at night, students can ensure they dedicate quality time to both their education and their relationships. This adaptability reduces stress and potential conflicts that may arise from rigid schedules, fostering a more harmonious home environment.

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    2. Emotional and personal growth

    Online learning not only accelerates professional growth but also enhances personal development. Advancing one’s education through online courses at institutions like Rockhurst can improve emotional intelligence, benefiting relationship dynamics. Understanding and managing personal emotions contribute to healthier relationships. Besides, pursuing educational opportunities demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability, valuable traits in any relationship.

    Pursuing an online degree together can also be a bonding experience for couples. As they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their educational journey, partners can provide emotional support, encouragement, and motivation to each other. Celebrating milestones, such as completing a difficult course or achieving a high grade, can bring couples closer and create a sense of shared accomplishment. This mutual understanding and appreciation for each other’s efforts can deepen the emotional connection and strengthen the foundation of the relationship.

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    3. Supporting careers in nursing

    The nursing profession is often demanding, limiting personal time. Rockhurst University’s online nursing programs specifically cater to these challenges by providing flexible, considerate learning paths. This approach allows students to balance professional advancement with family needs, ensuring they remain engaged in their personal lives and maintain relationship harmony.

    Online nursing programs at Rockhurst University offer specialized resources and support services tailored to the unique needs of nursing professionals. These may include access to mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and career guidance. By leveraging these resources, nursing students can not only enhance their skills and knowledge but also find strategies to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This comprehensive support system empowers nurses to thrive in their careers while nurturing meaningful personal relationships.

    4. Advancing careers without sacrificing family time

    Often, people are forced to choose between career growth and family. Online degrees eliminate this dilemma through their inherent flexibility and convenience. They integrate seamlessly into personal lives, allowing students to study during a child’s naptime or after bedtime. This way, pursuing higher education doesn’t compromise family responsibilities.

    Moreover, online learning allows couples to save time and money that would otherwise be spent on commuting to a traditional campus. This extra time can be invested in quality family activities, such as family dinners, game nights, or weekend outings. By eliminating the need to be physically present in a classroom, online degrees enable students to be more present and engaged in their personal lives, strengthening the bonds with their loved ones. This balance between career advancement and family time is crucial for maintaining long-lasting, healthy relationships.

    5. Supportive educational communities

    Rockhurst University enhances its online programs with a strong support network. This academically and emotionally supportive environment helps students manage the balance between education and personal lives. The community offers counseling services, peer interactions, and a sense of belonging, providing relief when the workload becomes intense. This network fosters personal relationships through shared educational experiences and support.

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    Enhancing education through institutions like Rockhurst University not only advances professional careers but also enriches personal lives. For many, improving their educational status while nurturing personal relationships makes the journey enriching and fulfilling.

    In addition to the support provided by the educational institution, online learners can also benefit from the understanding and encouragement of their partners. When both individuals in a relationship recognize the importance of personal growth and educational pursuits, they are more likely to create a supportive home environment. This may involve taking on additional household responsibilities, providing emotional support during challenging periods, or simply offering words of encouragement. By fostering a supportive and understanding atmosphere at home, couples can thrive in their educational endeavors while strengthening their relationship.

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