Politics And Your Relationship
Start writing a post
Dating

Are Similar Politics Needed In A Relationship?

Navigating whether or not you should be involved with someone who is politically different than you, and how to work through those differences if you do engage with them.

112
Are Similar Politics Needed In A Relationship?
https://unsplash.com/photos/S9J1HqoL9ns

With the election season in full swing, most people are considering who they are voting for. And figuring that out can be difficult in itself, but adding your significant other into the mix can make things more complicated.

Some people, of course, could be dating within the same political party, but even within the same party there can be significant differences in what you value politically, and what issues concern you both. Navigating that is easier said than done.

Depending on your level of commitment with your significant other, it reflects how much you weigh their political stances.

For those who are causally dating, you may avoid conversations related to politics. But, in an unprecedented way, politics has become more mainstream and part of regular conversation. So, though you may avoid it, the subject of the government's actions or lack thereof may come up.

It is important to keep an open mind and try to understand the point of view of the person you are casually engaging with. See what you agree on and harp on that for a bit. Once you feel comfortable enough, feel free to disclose more of your position in a way that is framed with reason and compassion. And be receptive to your significant other doing the same.

If your relationship is a bit more serious, then having a conversation about where you both stand politically is warranted. Be informal, but direct, and share.

Withholding this information puts a barrier between the two of you. Are the two of you being your authentic selves if you do not feel comfortable enough to share your views with each other? And are you okay with keeping that part of yourself hidden for the rest of your life?

Though it may be difficult to unpack all of this, it is unreasonable and on the verge of denial to not divulge this information if you intend to spend the rest of your life with this person.

So, if you do all of this and you find yourselves on opposite sides on party, views, or issues, then each of you have to decide how important politics is in your relationship.

For some, politics is a deal-breaker, but I would implore you to think of the history of the country's politics. Most countries have shifted directions in leadership, culture, and value, so how certain are you that you may not shift too?

What if you and your significant both shift at some point and find yourselves in accord?

In other words, it may not be wise to decide on something that is in flux. It may be wise, though, to focus on what unifies the two of you instead of what may separate the two of you.

Politics could be just one difference out of many differences between you and your significant other. And you are your significant other will not always be on the same page about everything, so is politics the exception?

Food for thought.

Instead, you and your significant other can go the polls and vote for whoever each of you will like, and support each other's autonomy and values. For support, is necessary for a healthy relationship.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

94208
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments