Different from the rest, my my first love came at a young age. Everybody then, and maybe even now, just considered it puppy love. But it eventually grew into much more and to this day I'm still learning. It came to an end about two years ago, yet I still use the lessons I learned from that relationship in my current relationship, with my friends and with whomever it seems necessary.
1. How to love.
The most important thing I learned was how to love somebody. It helped me mature quickly as well as learn how to be in a relationship and what love really was. Real love or not, I truly learned how to love another human that wasn't family the right way.
2. How to stick up for myself.
Through the ups and downs, there were definitely more downs than ups. There was constant fighting and bickering about what now are the dumbest things I can think of. I wasn't always being treated the way I deserved to be. Eventually, when I started seeing that, I learned that no boy is worth the stress and tears.
3. How to not be selfish.
Probably because I was so young, I was extremely selfish. I wanted to be the one constantly happy, I wanted things done my way, and there was no negotiating it. Luckily, the one I was with was the same way, so we gradually learned how to work things out so we'd both be happy.
4. Don't make promises you can't keep.
I'm completely and entirely guilty of making one too many promises to him I couldn't keep. Whether it was small or big things, I swore that I would follow through and I never did, which ultimately ended that relationship. I learned how to be honest and truthful with my boyfriend now. Learning that has saved my relationship a few times.
5. Fighting is never the answer.
Like I said before, there were so many downs to my past relationship. Nothing I ever said was the right thing to say and I had to tip toe around being careful of what I was going to say next. I'm guilty of it too, but fighting and yelling at each other only makes things so much worse.
6. It isn't always puppies and rainbows.
Relationships aren't easy. You have to learn so many things about each other and really sit down and talk about what you want and what your ultimate outcome is. Without honesty and communication, nothing will work out. You will argue sometimes and you will have to do things you don't always want to do.
7. Heartbreak isn't forever.
Although I was the one who ended that relationship, I was genuinely heartbroken and upset for months afterwards. I was constantly second guessing my decision and wondering if I made the wrong one. I went through rough nights where I was miserable and constantly cried, but trust me when I say it will get better. Your heart will slowly repair itself and you will feel better. That is something I can promise.
8. If you aren't happy, leave.
This was the biggest lesson I learned. I came to terms with not being happy anymore and ended it while I was sure that's what I should do. Breaking up with someone is one of the hardest things to do sometimes and it'll never get easier. But if you're sacrificing your happiness, end it.