Yes, I am in my early twenties. No, I have no idea where my life is heading. I am constantly asked what I am going to do with my major and when I am going to get married and where I see myself living after graduation. My answer to these questions is always I do not know -- and there is nothing wrong with that. This quality may not be attractive to some. Some may say I am not driven or that I am not thinking about my future. However, I am forever thankful that I have found someone who believes in me and is constantly supporting me. I must define free spirit before I list some ways free spirits should be loved. Some may initially associate the term with a tree-hugging hippie, but that is not always the case. A free spirit is independent, charismatic, and uninhibited by the opinions of others. A free spirit does what he or she is passionate about and does not conform to normality unless he or she wants to. Loving a free spirit may not always be easy, but life will forever be a journey.

1. Be encouraging.

I understand that this may not always be the easiest thing to be. Especially when he or she decides to start a non-profit organization, take some time off to write a novel, or paint a room in the house yellow just because. There are times when we will make mistakes, but we will always fix them. We get these extravagant ideas in our heads and we just want to share our excitement with someone. We need you to be encouraging, no matter what.

2. Take us on impromptu dates.

There is nothing more exciting than when I get a text from my boyfriend in the middle of the day telling me he wants to go to dinner, get ice cream, and then go take a walk. Plans just do not go over well with us. We will either forget we had them or be disappointed when they do not follow through.

3. Be affectionate.

Free spirits may overthink sometimes. We are affectionate people, so return the affection. It may seem childish to some. However, affection is our way of knowing you care and enjoy our time together.

4. Do not take us too seriously.

One moment we might be overly upset about something, then be content five minutes later. We are emotional and passionate people. Support that. We change our minds a lot.

5. Do not establish rules in the relationship.

This is a complete mistake. A free spirit does not follow rules and does not want them in a relationship. Do not say something like there is no lying in this relationship. Instead, ask “Would you risk destroying this relationship and the trust we have in each other because of a trivial lie?” We like boundaries that are up to us to follow.

6. Love their free spirit.

Support them in everything that they do and even get in touch with your free spirit. If you decide you are in for the long run, a free spirit will always be an adventure in life. A free spirit has chosen you because you are trustworthy, compassionate, spontaneous, and understanding. Not many people can fulfill all of the roles a free spirit needs you to be. Love them for them and never ask them to change.