A relationship, as defined by the Oxford English Dictionary, is, “the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, or the state of being connected.” In this case, a romantic relationship tends to a be monogamous affinity between two individuals. Not to be overly trite, but in essence each party is a half of a whole. Like yin and yang, there needs to be balance between the individuals, their separate lives and the relationship as a whole. I, by no means, am an expert in symbiotic love, but I can speak of my own relationship and those of which I have witnessed around me.

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Personally, I like to be able to see my significant other at least once a day, which ends up mainly being at night. Because our schedules are very different, he having more homework intensive courses and me being overly involved on campus, it took some time to find a good balance to see each other. While we always tell each other school comes first, it can still be hard to act on. Honestly, doing homework together can not only be motivational but also nice just being able to spend time together. Sometimes even doing small tasks together such as laundry, cooking and studying can give you that time without making an already busy schedule busier. Again, I like to spend a lot of time with my boyfriend, but it is really important to make time to see friends. A significant other should be both a partner and a friend, but it helps to make room for other friends as well. It can be really easy to get wrapped up in a relationship. Also, sometimes friends can get jealous and think you aren’t giving them enough attention because of your SO. While balance in a relationship is important, so is the balance between friendships.

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As I’ve said before, I personally like to see my boyfriend a lot, but not everyone is like that. Some people prefer to have separate lives and need space from their SO, which is completely fine. Communication is honestly key when it comes to finding a good middle ground. Alone time can be a necessity, and it’s not selfish to need it. A whole can be whole if a half feels worn out or unhappy, which is why self-care is just as important as growing the relationship. Sometimes you need some TLC and quiet watching a movie in your room all by yourself and that is perfectly fine. At the end of the day, your happiness is just as important as your partner’s.

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One thing that can never be said enough, again, is “communication is key”. Now, just because it is important doesn’t mean that it is always easy. Sometimes the things we need to say the most are the hardest to get out. At the end of the day, there should be mutual respect and openness between partners. For instance, if someone is feeling upset or uncomfortable, there should be a willingness to listen and try to understand.  Relationships don’t come with guidebooks by any means, but that’s what makes it all the more fun. They are opportunities to learn so much more about those who are most important to you and honestly, yourself in the same process. A relationship is an adventure, and in this adventure there are two equal partners.