Relationships are weird. They can be pretty complicated and confusing. Especially if you've never been in one before. There are a lot of—well, "rules" when it comes to relationships. At least that's what it feels like sometimes.
However, just because you hear about it from your friends, doesn't necessarily make them true. Here are 7 relationship myths debunked! You can thank me later.
1. Opposites attract
Personally, it's a fifty-fifty. I think it's great to have things in common. I mean, if you guys were complete polar opposites, what would you guys even talk about? What would you guys even agree on?
But being the exact same wouldn't be any fun either. Somewhere in the middle is ideal.
2. You can't hang out with the opposite sex alone
It's normal to feel jealous. It'd be weird if you weren't a little jealous from time to time.
But, to say your significant other can't have friends of the opposite sex (or the same sex) is absolutely ridiculous. And yes, they are allowed to hang out with them alone.
Relationships are built on trust and communication. If you don't trust your partner to make their own decisions and be their own person, then why are you with them in the first place?
3. Couples therapy's for couples who fight a lot
I use to think that's what it was for. For couples who need counseling because they argue too much or something.
But, I mean, I went to a therapist before just because. You don't need to be "mentally ill" in order to see one. Same thing goes for couples therapy. Sometimes it's nice to just sit down and get a professional's unbiased thoughts and opinions on your guys' relationship.
4. Sex is an important part of a relationship
Yes and no. It depends on the relationship. Sex is important, but it's not everything. If the two of you decide to wait, or decide not to engage in sex, that's fine. It's not required for a successful relationship.
That being said, it does have an impact in a relationship—if the two of you decide it to be.
5. Babies lead to marriage
This one's a more "old-timey" one, but it's still something I hear about in the media.
The idea that you are now stuck together because of a life you two created is barbaric. Sure, the little guy (or girl) is a combination of the two of you's DNAs, but that doesn't necessarily mean the two of you are meant to be—marriage-wise.
6. Masturbating is cheating
Personally, I don't think it is. It's natural. It's a normal, human act humans do.
There's nothing wrong with it, and there's no shame in doing so. That being said, I know there are people out there who believe it's cheating. This might just be a personal thing, and everyone's entitled to their own opinions, but I don't think masturbating is cheating.
7. If it's meant to be, it will be
Maybe in a "true love conquers all" kind of way. That's actually what I tell all my girl friends involved with sh*tty guys.
However, if we're seriously talking about this, that's not how life works. That's not how love works.
Love is a choice. You're in control of your own destiny. So, if you decide to cut off a guy who wronged you and expect him to come running back to you: it's not gonna happen. If you don't take a chance and ask your crush out, they'll probably never know you liked them to begin with.
As much as I like to believe "if it's meant to be, it will be," you are essentially in control of your own love life.
There's no right or wrong way to date. It's really up to the individuals in the relationship. Maybe you agree with me, and maybe you don't. That's totally fine.
Relationships are hard work. What works for one couple might not work for another.
These are just my personal thoughts and opinions. Feel free to disagree!