When You're in a Relationship: What You Should and Shouldn't Change About Yourself
I know a lot of people stand strong by the "don't ever change for anyone" saying. Well, sometimes that can actually just bite you in the ass and ruin all your relationships. I will agree that there are certain things people shouldn't have to change about themselves, and I do hope that most people find a partner that loves them for exactly who they are. However, it is also important to remember that compromise plays a huge part in relationships, and some personality traits can be really hard to live with...and probably even unnecessary.
1) Change your bad attitude. There is a time and place to be negative and to complain, and it is NOT at every minute of everyday. Start seeing the positive and realize that not every single little thing is the end of the world; and I'm sure even you'll feel less miserable. If you still think everything is the end of the world, I suggest a trip to Sub-Saharan Africa for a big reality check.
2) Don't change your views and beliefs. You are entitled to them and if they cause issues in your relationship, maybe your partner just isn't the best fit for you.
3) Change your overreactions. Overreacting definitely causes more harm than good. Sitting down and talking calmly IN PERSON is a way better and more mature way to deal with any concerns you may have, rather than blowing up the other person's phone with 200 angry texts. Plus, I would say a good 80% of the time people overreact simply over a small misunderstanding.
4) Don't change your sensitivity. Not overreacting does not mean you shouldn't be emotional. Some people are more sensitive than others, and it is just important that you communicate clearly to your s/o what exactly it is that makes you emotional/sensitive. Guys too btw........
5) Change your single mentality/habits. Yes, friends are super important. But if you're still going out drinking "with the boys" / having "girl's night out" every weekend...it might not be the best time for you to be in a relationship...?
6) Don't change your lifestyle. If a huge part of your life is going out, socializing, and partying, then make sure your partner is the same, and that they are included in those activities. If you prefer staying in and watching movies, then make sure your partner enjoys this as well. You shouldn't have to change your lifestyle for someone, you should just make sure that your lifestyles match, and you'll both be happy.
7) Change your way of showing love. We all give and receive love in different ways. Some people need words, others need gifts, some need more affection, and who knows what else. Be attentive to your partner's reactions and body language, and figure out ASAP how they prefer to receive love. Most of the time it really won't be hard for you to adapt, and it could definitely improve your connection with your s/o.
8) Don't change the way you feel. Don't ever force yourself to feel a certain way, and don't ever ignore your feelings either, good or bad. Also, don't let others (no matter how important they are in your life) affect the way you feel about your s/o. This is YOUR relationship, your life, your heart.
9) Change your fears and insecurities. This will also do more harm than good in your relationship. Of course you can't just erase your past or start with a clean slate every time. However, you owe it to your partner to treat them as their own person, without any preconceptions. Furthermore, just stop being insecure. Confidence is not only attractive, but it is also healthy. You owe that one to yourself.
10) Don't change your quirks. We're all weird in our own ways. And I really don't see why couples shouldn't get "too comfortable" with each other. Find someone who accepts and genuinely appreciates your weird traits.
11) Change your communication style. I wouldn't say change it completely, but I would say make efforts to adapt it to your partner's. Some people are just more argumentative, while others despise even the smallest argument. Some people need to speak everything on their mind, and it may drive their s/o slightly insane, while the same may happen if one keeps all their thoughts to themselves. First, it's obviously important to communicate about these things. Second, it's just important to be mindful of how your partner reacts and interprets your ways of communicating. Third, there needs to be balance.
12) Don't change your other relationships. Friends and family are extremely important, and whatever "traditions" you have with them, keep them. Wanting to include your s/o in them can be a beautiful thing, but also wanting to keep some things the way they've always been is totally fine.
13) Change your unrealistic expectations. Chances are if you have expectations that are similar to the plots of most romance movies, you will be disappointed and unhappy, and I will not feel bad for you. Focus less on how your partner "should be" based on unrealistic expectations, and more on how they ARE, how they treat you, all the little things they do for you on a daily basis (that you probably take for granted), and especially, how even though you are not perfect, they are still right by your side.