This year, the year of famous deceased gorillas and questionable presidential candidates, is coming to a close. As technology continues to evolve and surprise, relationships are evolving along with it. Now, I do not claim to be a love guru or relationship-specialist; I'm just a college student who observes things the same way all of us do. Specifically, I have seen how my peers and those a few years younger than me handle and go about forming romantic attachments. It's a little strange and disheartening to see the lack of depth in some relationships these days. Here are a few things that, if left behind in 2016, would help us as young people to have more meaningful relationships in 2017:
1. Have Tough Conversations In Person, If Possible
Long distances relationships can certainly be valid. So, if your significant other can only best be reached through Facetime, replace "in person" with "over webcam" or, "over the phone." I see a lot of my peers, and I have been guilty of this too, having deep conversations that address new topics or make-or-break beliefs, over text. This isn't always a bad thing, but it shouldn't be the go-to form for uncomfortable communication; here's why: if you are serious about this someone or foresee the relationship lasting longer than the next few weeks, learn how to talk about the hard things face to face. Texting is an easy cop out to avoid those testing moments when one of you feels like yelling, or you sit in an angry silence for a little while. However, you can talk to anyone over text! Don't you want your relationship with your SO to be stronger than it would be just another anyone? Ask them to come over or offer to get coffee when you have something of importance to say that can't wait.
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2. Bring Them To Your Parent's House
Obviously, few of us have a perfect relationship with our parents. Some of us don't have family at all. However, if there are people you look up to in your life, let your partner get to know them after a while. The effort a boyfriend or girlfriend makes to be kind to parents, siblings, or family friends, speaks volumes about their character. Don't wait until your mind is already made up before you let some trusting folks give him/her a glance.
3. Ditch Dinner And A Movie
Dinner and a movie is fun and easy; heck, I'm about to go on one of those dates as I write this! For established couples, it's a relaxing way to spend a free evening together and chat over a good meal. On the other hand, just as I see many couples getting caught in the limbo of discussing everything over text, partners are also depending upon standard dates where discussion can be avoided by glancing at the screen or talking to the waiter instead. Facing different fears, trying new activities, and braving uncharted waters with your partner allows each person the chance to see how the other behaves under different kinds of pressures and situations. Plus, it's a tried and true fact that mixing things up in a relationship can help couples avoid feeling bored of one another. Go rock climbing, ice skating, or bike-riding together. Babysit, go one a mission trip, or cook meals as a couple.
Finding love may not be as effortless as a Disney romance, but by incorporating the tips above, you can have Disney moments in your relationship. Shallow relationships are just as easily obtained as they are broken. Meaningful connection, on the other hand, requires tender care and work, like a flourishing garden. Don't let your love be one of the many; be an example to your peers by proving to them the good value left in having real relationships.
