When we meet someone new, it can be exciting and fun.  Your new partner occupies most of your time, but then your obsession calms down. You’re not as infatuated as you once were and you begin to see your other half as they really are – good and bad.

Finding someone 

• Don’t go out with someone just because your friends think you should.
• Accept that the perfect partner doesn’t exist.
• Accept you may not get it right first time. It’s all about trial and error.
• Don’t think too much about long term plans. Just go with the flow.
• Don’t try to change someone, and don’t change for someone else.
• The right relationship makes you feel good about yourself.
• Find someone you can talk to – communication is important if you want your relationship to go the distance.
• Don’t say no to a date just because they’re not your type – you may be surprised.

To be or not to be?

• Don’t live in each others pockets.
• Make time for friends.
• Don’t take the occasional mood to heart. Everyone has off days.
• Be prepared not to be their main priority from time to time.
• Share your thoughts and feelings with your partner.

Sex is not compulsory

Cheating – should you come clean?

• It’s all down to conscience and how much you value honesty, and your partner.
• Bear in mind, if it was a one off and you decide to keep it to yourself, how would your partner react if they found out from someone else that you had been unfaithful?
• How would you feel if it was the other way round?
• If it’s not a one off, think about why you’re doing it.  Is it worth hurting people just so you can satisfy your own needs.

 Do you think you’re partner’s cheating on you?

• Don’t accuse them unless you have proof. Remember that trust plays an important part in relationships.
• If you have proof, you need to confront them. Don’t torture yourself by putting it off.
• Before making a decision to stay with them or not, listen to what they have to say. If you don’t trust them, go with your instincts.

Splitting up

• Be upfront and do it face to face.  Dumping by text, phone or email is gutless.
• Think about how you would like to be treated if it was the other way round.
• Explain how you feel but do it gently.
• Telling someone it’s over can be emotional. It’s normal to feel guilty and miserable.

And if you’re the one being dumped…