If you're dating someone, chances are you do not always share the same interests, likes or dislikes. In my relationship, the one major like that my significant other and I do not see eye-to-eye on is sports. He loves soccer, and I love football. They are two very different sports, with overlapping seasons and different rules that are not always easy to understand. However, our different interests do not hinder our relationship, but rather they add to it. Trying to learn more about your significant other's interest says a lot and the gesture goes a long way. So, here are a few things to try to show your SO you care.
1. Pay attention to the news.
Maybe I'm weird, but I have the ESPN app on my phone. I have the notifications turned on for my favorite teams, as well as Chelsea FC, my boyfriend's favorite British Premier League team. The first time I mentioned a news story to him, he was shocked and really excited that I took the time to pay attention to his favorite team. The small gesture had an impact on our relationship, and now, he even takes the time to learn about the Browns and Packers, my favorite NFL teams.
2. Ask how the season is going.
I'm not saying you have to listen to the 15-minute monologue your SO will spout out, but just asking about the team, how the season is going and what your SO thinks about lineups, players, jerseys and all things sports will mean a lot. Just simple head nods and basic noises showing interest will help you skate by with this one, but still show that you care.
3. If you don't understand, ask.
If you do not understand the sport, ask questions! It is how we all learn and any sports lover or self proclaimed aficionado will be more than happy to show off their knowledge. It is an ego booster and shows a slight interest from you. Your SO will be so excited to share information about something they love with you. I know I always love answering my boyfriend's questions about football, just like he loves answering mine about soccer.
4. Watch a game with them.
Now, I know this sounds scary. I still get a little scared when I watch a Chelsea FC game with my SO, and I know he gets a little scared whenever he watches a football game with me. True fans get intense. The team's losses and victories are shared by the fan. Any missed goal, shot or basket is felt, any made are celebrated. Penalties will be argued, referees will be yelled at through the TV. It is all normal and expected. However, sitting through that game or match will mean the world to your SO, and you never know, you might find yourself starting to appreciate or even like the sport after you watch it a few times.
Overall, the point I'm trying to make here is it means a lot to someone when you put the effort into trying and showing interest in their favorite things. It will always mean a lot to me that my boyfriend will watch games he does not understand or even teams that rival his own favorites because he wants to show me how much he cares. I know it means a lot to him when I do the same. So please, ignore the "Girlfriend Guides" and other articles that lamely try to explain sports to you. Just ask your SO, show an inkling of interest, and I promise you, you will be set.
