Tips for Staying True to Yourself in Relationships

This article I am writing is based on my own opinion and experiences along with the experiences of many people I have spoken to over the years. I have come to realise that many people have said that one aspect of relationships that they have often found difficult is staying true to themselves, and not losing who they are in the midst of their relationship.

Relationships are too diverse to have one set of tips that will work for all, but when it comes to staying true to yourself it can be broken down to simple tips that can help a great deal if you apply them. The tips I am suggesting in this hub can also be applied to friendships on any level and family. Staying true to yourself applies in ALL types of relationships.

Communication is a large part of the foundation to any strong relationship and making sure you stay true to yourself. It also serves a good purpose when it comes to communicating your needs to your partner, regardless of the type of relationship you have. Sometimes it is human nature to just expect your partner to automatically know what you need without you letting them know. More often than not they don't have a clue! State clearly what your needs and wants are if you expect to get those needs and wants met!

Ask questions about anything you might not be sure of when it comes to something that concerns you about your partner or your relationship. Never compromise who you are by not speaking your mind in order to please your partner. There are tactful ways to bring up touchy subjects when you are concerned you will upset your partner. (That will be covered in another hub)

Always set clear boundaries with your partner stating what you will and will not accept. Also it is always a good idea to make it very clear what your expectations are. If you expect your partner to call when he/she say they will then make it clear that is what you expect. KNOW YOUR WORTH! Set your standards to what you believe you deserve!

Be realistic with your expectations. Make sure you are a match to what you are expecting from your partner. For example If you expect your partner to be caring and considerate towards you, then you should be able to be caring and considerate towards him/her too.

A large part of setting and maintaining boundaries is walking your talk! In other words back your chat with actions. if it is something you expect to be taken seriously over.

Always be yourself regardless of how your partner behaves. You do not need to conform to someone else's opinion or expectation of you if it does not match who you really are.

Always do what feels right for you. Listen to your gut feeling/intuition if you ever get that pulling feeling where something either does or does not feel right, or where there is something you need to look into further. Your gut feeling is always there to lead you in the direction that is right for you!

Maintain your personal relationships with friends and associates and keep up with your own interests and hobbies. It is very easy to get lost in a relationship and let your friendships slip away. Try to maintain those friendships with regular contact and social events.

This is not an extensive list with every way you can be true to yourself, but I have found that myself and many others have found these tips to be very useful.

Thank you for reading this article!