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Many of us have grown up on a steady diet of chintzy romance movies, happily ever afters, and, if that wasn't enough, romance novels that would keep us awake late at night dreaming of our Prince Charming. However, one of the biggest misconceptions about love is that, with the right person, it feels like a fairy tale, not like the one where Little Red Riding Hood is simply eaten by the wolf, but the Disney-ified versions.

This is ironic, considering that the 'original' fairy tale versions are much closer to reality than the altered ones. Hence the idea of a fairy tale has also shifted, suggesting that a fairy tale is better than reality. This is also where many relationship myths stem from—the belief that the prince of a faraway kingdom will save you from all the travail in life. To think of it like that is simply delusional. The many myths about love and relationships are either black or white, leaving no room for grey areas. Well, this is not how life works. These marriage myths and common misconceptions about love have very little (or nothing) to back their factuality. Even water doesn't exist in just a single shape. It's a shape-shifter. And so is love. And so are relationships. Hence, these myths about love and relationships should never be taken at face value. That which proved true for someone might not work for others simply because there are no universal solutions to fit everyone.

Below, we've compiled a list of some of the most common misconceptions about love and relationships that need to be debunked ASAP. What relationship myths have you heard that sounded absurd or proved themselves wrong? Let us know in the comments. Also, if you are interested in the subject, be sure to check out our previous article featuring bad relationship advice that you should probably think twice about before applying to your life.

#1

You should want to be together 24/7/365.

There is a belief that states if two people genuinely love one another, they should be inseparable. However, spending time alone or apart may be very rewarding and enjoyable. And true to what is said, love does really grow fonder with absence. You and your S/O do not have to be joined at the hip just because you are in a relationship. You'll have much more to offer your partnership if you maintain your individuality and independence.

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Susie Elle
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1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My boyfriend and I have conflicting schedules (I work 9-5 and he works evenings). This automatically caused us to make the time we do have together extra special. So less quantity, but more quality.

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    #2

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Your partner can fulfill all your needs.

    We might believe that finding the ideal partner would solve all of our issues. However, no single solution exists for all of our problems. It isn't shedding pounds, finding the perfect job, getting married, or any other things we believe would instantly improve our lives. A partner is not there to satisfy all of our wants and fulfill all of our desires.

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    #3

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships You should never feel attracted to anyone but your partner.

    Just because you're married or in a committed relationship does not indicate that you will stop being attracted to other people. You could still occasionally feel drawn to someone else. What you do with that emotion or lust is what matters. While you may experience feelings of attraction, the mature move that keeps your relationship at the forefront is not acting on those feelings, i.e., not cheating or flirting mercilessly.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This should be way higher on the list. There's such a stigma around feeling attracted to people other than your SO. All that is is your brain seeking a dopamine rush. Humans are designed to seek novelty and after time you don't get that in a relationship. What matters is what you do with how you feel. As the OP says, if you're in a monogamous relationship, keeps your hands and your emotions to yourself.

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    #4

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Love should be a fairy tale.

    Although relationships should be a wellspring of beauty and growth, they are often messy and complicated. Very few aspects of life are like a fairy tale, so letting go of the notion that our romantic relationships should be perfect in every way is essential. It may sometimes feel like it, but love is not a fairy tale, even though imagining it that way is super romantic. The most beautiful aspects of a love tale are the real elements.

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    Tessa Shea
    Community Member
    1 year ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Marriage is sweet, Love is also sweet but i don't see why after getting married to my dream man he still cheated on me with his EX girlfriend though i had try breaking into his IPHONE since last year but still not getting access to his phone since then i just try to swallow all my husband had been doing but i can't take it any more so i came in contact to gmail of fredvalcyberghost@gmail.com , with his help I had access to my husband's phone without touching his phone. I had full information of his chats with his ex-girlfriend last year. With all I saw, I don't think I can move on with the marriage. He went as far as telling the girlfriend that I have been his wrong & i beat her up almost everyday. I was so disappointed & I called off the marriage.. You can text, call him on +14236411452

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    #5

    If you have a partner, you don’t need anyone else.

    Although partners are unquestionably important in each other's life, many people also have "significant others" who are just as (if not more) significant in their lives. In a relationship, "us time" and "me time" are both essential for many of us. For many people, a third factor, such as a friend, pet, or personal interest, often strengthens the relationship rather than harms it.

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    #6

    Birth control is just the woman’s responsibility.

    Since it takes two to create a child, so should it take two to avoid getting pregnant. Physical, mental, and even financial hardship is associated with acquiring and taking birth control. You should discuss with your partner how you may split that responsibility.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, exactly this. Both sides have a responsibility to protect themselves first and then each other.

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    #7

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships A good relationship is supposed to make you feel better.

    We assume that being with our partner would instantly improve things and lift our spirits whether we are having a terrible day or are in a foul mood. Even if you're in a beautiful relationship, you must realize it's OK to feel depressed about other parts of your life. Also, some single individuals may believe that having a love companion at their side will make them feel better overall. There is life beyond love, a lesson many of us need to understand.

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    Oliver Coine
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm a little confused by this one. I'm 7 years into a relationship and if I ever have a bad day, just being next to them or seeing them immediately brightens my mood. Yes, there are days where we argue and we both feel sad, but we manage to brighten each others days either doing something together or separately nearby. However, I'm one of those people that feel like they need a relationship to function correctly, so perhaps this is just my path and I'm confused by other paths people are following.

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    #8

    Love is enough.

    The simplest explanation is that since love is conditional, it is insufficient. It is conditional, like everything else in life. Change itself is the one thing that never changes. Falling in love might set you on the path to a happy marriage. And it may keep you in the marriage game and moving toward genuine matrimonial bliss. Yet, love by itself does not guarantee a happy wedlock. More than just a heart-stopping high is required to have a healthy relationship with someone.

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    #9

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships If you have to work on communication, it’s a sign that you’re not compatible.

    The relationship will degrade over time if you don't work on communication, much like a car that isn't maintained will break apart sooner or later. Every relationship needs effort, and communication is just one of the things that you and your partner might have to work with if it's not so great from the get-go. Listening to your partner and taking down your defensive walls when you need to takes effort.

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    Maryland
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Relationships are always a work in progress. And that is a good thing

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    #10

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships If you have a strong relationship, you should always feel happy.

    No matter how little you quarrel or how much you love each other’s presence, this is unrealistic. Finding lasting happiness requires finding a balance in all facets of your life, which goes beyond just having a good relationship. A healthy relationship helps with contentment, but it’s just one piece of the jigsaw.

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    #11

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships There’s one special someone for everyone.

    The idea that there is just one person out there for everyone is arguably the most far-fetched romantic fib that exists. One individual? Among billions? It doesn't make any sense. There are plenty of people with whom you could get along; your paths just never crossed (yet). Imagine having to wait around for the right single to come along in today's climate when dating is already difficult enough. It would be quite a daunting prospect.

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    Maryland
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have patience and be happy with yourself first. A great partner is not always the next person off the bus.

    #12

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Your feelings won't ever change in the right relationship.

    By their very nature, feelings are fleeting and subject to change. Does this imply that you'll one day stop loving your partner? It's possible, though highly unlikely. But what it does suggest is that you could go through times when you don't feel in love or as much in love as you did in the early stages of your relationship. Your feelings for your partner may be dwindling. And you could experience an emotional jolt at other times. These ups and downs are typical in a long-term relationship. Hence, don't be alarmed when your partnership undergoes different stages and changes.

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    #13

    A relationship with the right person should be easy.

    As stated earlier, the relationship's honeymoon phase may make it seem like a fairy tale. Nonetheless, a healthy relationship requires work and upkeep from both parties. We all have flaws and emotional baggage. It's not meant to be simple or effortless to maintain a relationship despite all of these difficulties, let alone the occasional curve balls life may toss your way. If you're both willing to put in the effort, the fruits of your labor will be very much worth it.

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    Secret Squirrel
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I used to believe this, all I heard was relationships are hard work. But ten years ago I got into a relationship that's never been work. Work on yourself is hard, sometimes life is hard, but a healthy relationship only makes those other things easier. People stay in bad relationships because of advice like the above. It doesn't mean life is easy, but the relationship should be. If it doesn't make the hard parts of life easier to bear, it's not worth keeping.

    #14

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships There’s no love like your first love.

    As with many "firsts" in life, the "first love" is often very special, yet it's typically over-romanticized. Realize that your first love usually happens while you're young and, let's face it, immature. Hence, even while the novelty of your first relationship may provide some fireworks and excitement, comparing all subsequent relationships to it is not a good idea. Don't exalt your first love. You will better understand yourself and what it means to love and commit to another person as you mature as an individual and a partner.

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    Secret Squirrel
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No love is like another. No matter how many you have. If you're trying to recreate a relationship or feeling from the past, you're never going to succeed

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    #15

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships If a relationship needs therapy, it’s already too late.

    There were 689,308 divorces overall in the 45 U.S. states that reported this data in 2021. Probably most of the couples didn't even consider therapy as a way to mend their relationship. However, how many could have been saved? According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, 97.1% of polled clients stated couples counseling gave them the support they needed, and more than 80% of respondents reported good results from relationship therapy. Even if it won't save the relationship, it's very much worth giving a try.

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    Libstak
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If your partner and yourself think enough of each other to try therapy, then there is something still there worth the hard work to keep and have.

    #16

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Fighting is a sign of an ill-fated relationship.

    Today, the majority of people are aware that occasional conflict and disagreement are not only natural but actually beneficial for a relationship. It's all about striking the right balance and making sure that your disagreements are constructive and respectful. Don't avoid disagreements; instead, use them as a tool to improve and fix the loopholes in your relationship.

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    #17

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Having a baby will fix your relationship.

    Many couples experiencing difficulties in their marriage believe that having a child would resolve their problems. Sadly, this approach is poorly thought out. A baby won't improve communication, so be completely honest with yourself and each other about what's happening before you decide to have a child as a last-ditch attempt to fix your marriage. Don't put pressure on someone who hasn't even come into this world.

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    day light
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was conceived (accidentally) towards the end of my parents' relationship, so I'm in a similar boat. it really sucks being a child raised in a household where your parents don't love each other because it makes you feel like love is something that only exists in fiction. it's hard to break out of that mindset

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    #18

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships There should be no secrets in a relationship.

    Relationship advice along the lines of "tell your partner everything, keep no secrets" is something we hear constantly. While lying and cheating have no place in a healthy relationship, you don't have to disclose every little detail of your thoughts and feelings. For instance, you don't have to describe to your partner in great detail an episode when someone was hitting on you. Or they don't need to know that you actually don't like their favorite pair of jeans. It's OK to keep to yourself a few innocent secrets, which are essentially not secrets at all, just some trivial stuff that isn't worth starting the conversation about.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Absolutely. If my husband knew how much I hate that (one of a dozen) hole-y t-shirts he'd be horrified. I figure if it's a secret that is both insignificant AND would hurt him I keep it to myself.

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    #19

    Your partner should complete you.

    The collective heart of the late 1990s was melted by one of the most romantic movie statements ever, "You complete me." However, that was only a movie. Do we really need someone else to complete us? Because we are already whole, partners are not intended to complete us. Recognize and celebrate your inherent completeness. That does not imply that a worthy partner won't contribute to filling in the cracks and holes in your spirit and heart. A caring, loving relationship may undoubtedly have a therapeutic effect, but that healing only goes so far since you still need to work on yourself individually.

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    #20

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships You should never go to bed angry.

    We often say things we don't always mean when things become heated. It's actually recommended to take some time to unwind before talking about something that made you upset. If you allow it some time to cool off as you sleep on it, whatever it is will probably not look like as big of a deal in the morning. However, try to gather the words and let your partner know that you'd rather continue the conversation in the morning, especially if your partner is prone to overthinking.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    11 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I like the idea of being able to resolve a conflict simply because it's late but I don't think it's reasonable to expect that a clock decides when you're done disagreeing. I'd much rather agree that we'll continue the next day and part with a hug than fight into the night until we're both exhausted and saying things we don't mean.

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    #21

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Marriage should always be 50/50 or 100/100.

    In a partnership of two, both parties must contribute to the relationship's success; hence a 50/50 (or 100/100) ratio makes perfect sense. However, sh*t happens. People face challenges, receive bad news, and undergo difficult times. You will sometimes put much more work into your relationship than your partner. For example, if your partner is depressed, ill, or laid off from a job, which happened to many couples during the Covid-19 outbreak. In a fulfilling relationship, you don't mind helping your partner out when needed since you know they'd do the same for you if the roles were reversed.

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    Natasha Arruda
    Community Member
    10 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've actually read about a couple that will often speak to each other about their percents. "Hey, honey, I've had a crappy day at work, and am only at 30%." And the partner would say something like "okay, I can do 70." or "Well lets order dinner/put off dishes/sweep tomorrow because I am at 50." Or sometimes say "Hey, I'm at 80! Why don't you relax today and I'll get X, Y, Z, if you just do A." meaning that while they tried to do 50/50 between them, they also understood sometimes it was unrealistic and I liked that idea.

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    #22

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Your partner should be your best friend.

    Your partner should ideally be considered your friend, but your best buddy? You might be asking too much of one person. These are two very different relationships. And usually, best friends don’t engage in steamy lovemaking. Naturally, what works for you may not work for others. Some couples have more similar interests, outlooks on life and morals. Others may share a few key characteristics, but still, each partner can have their own interests.

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    Apatheist Account2
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They should be your number one priority - the one you would choose to spend time with over others if there's a conflict. Not exclusively, but if your mates ask you out and your partner already has, then you say no.

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    #23

    Playing hard to get is the best tactic.

    Playing hard to get with a person you are interested in will likely result in you staying single as a Pringle! Very few people have the time and "drive" to persistently pursue someone who doesn't return the effort. At least not today, with the abundance of options on dating apps. Whilst there may be some psychological truth to the statement, "we want what we can't have," being honest and direct is always the best course of action.

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    Secret Squirrel
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dont play hard to get if you want to get got. And the corollary, don't play games if you don't want to be played with.

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    #24

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Love is shown through big gestures and expensive gifts.

    It seems so romantic to see men serenade women in a packed building, toss rocks outside their windows to profess their everlasting love, and put their lives in danger to be with them. And because most women crave romance, they have romantic love fantasies similar to what they read in books. These elaborate, movie-style gestures don't convey romance. It's not in a guy jumping through flames to give a woman one last kiss or receiving mountains of gifts. Love is often silent. It may be seen in how someone treats us and prioritizes our needs over their own. It's in the small, subtle gestures that are easy for us to overlook.

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    #25

    Monogamy is crucial for a relationship.

    Being monogamous (committed to just one person) is a crucial component of relationships for many people. However, research by Jessica Fern, an author of "Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy," indicated that around 16 million Americans, or 4% of the population, are "practicing a non-monogamous style of relationship" In fact, according to another study, individuals who are monogamous and those who are ethically non-monogamous reported equal levels of relationship satisfaction. Hence, monogamy may not be the answer for all successful relationships.

    Jessica Fern , Wood, J., Desmarais, S., Burleigh, T., & Milhausen, R. Report

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't know that this will get a lot of up votes because there tends to be a lot of judgement around ethical nonmonogamy and that's unfortunate. It's the word "ethical" that's key here. This type of relationship is not a pass to cheat, it's an agreement to communicate constantly about who's involved in your relationships and to what extent. It doesn't work for everyone, but when both (or multiple) parties are in agreement it can make for great relationships.

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    #26

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships No one will love you just as you are.

    Feelings of worthlessness, which frequently result from unresolved past experiences, might make you think that changing is the only way to build a connection. On the other hand, openness and honesty result in the strongest, most genuine friendships. You will feel the most at ease when you are sure the other person acknowledges and embraces who you truly are.

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    #27

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships You need to always feel the "spark.”

    Although relationships often start with intensely fluttering hearts and frenzied eagerness, gradually, those heartbeats settle down. The love becomes stronger but doesn't subside. Many individuals worry about no longer feeling the "spark," failing to see that it has been replaced with a deeper and longer-lasting form of attachment. You can keep rekindling that flame, but love evolves and matures throughout the relationship.

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    Secret Squirrel
    Community Member
    8 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It depends entirely on what kind of relationship you want. It's ok to just want spark. It's ok to want something else. Keeping the spark takes effort, but if you want spark, that's a perfectly reasonable measure of a relationship, not one everyone values as highly but nonless valid

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    #28

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships The proposal must come as a surprise and must be big.

    In today's "promposal" culture, even receiving a prom invitation needs a special event. As a result, we've come to the conclusion that an engagement proposal needs to be, well, out of this world. This puts a lot of unnecessary strain on all parties involved. Yes, make it unique and romantic, but don't spend all your money or drive yourself crazy trying to make something that will go viral. Having said that, proposals don't always have to be a surprise. We're confident that most actual engagements were, at the very least, partially discussed and planned before the proposal. This makes sense in a time when it's usual for couples to share a bed before becoming engaged or married and when it's becoming more typical for both partners to play an equal, active part in planning their shared future.

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    #29

    Opposites attract.

    A recipe for disaster is looking for someone completely different from you in any meaningful way. You must have some shared goals and principles. If not, there won't be any glue holding the partnership together. We are attracted to our romantic partners not because they are "opposites" but because of specific personality features, interests, and even biological cues.

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    #30

    If your partner is jealous, it means they love you.

    A little envy now and again is OK. Still, if your partner frequently gets bitten by the green-eyed monster, it can indicate a dysfunctional relationship. Imagine someone who refuses to let you see their family and friends out of jealousy or becomes envious if you go out for coffee with a coworker. These behaviors can go too far and result in abusive conditions.

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    #31

    Happy relationships are rare.

    Regardless of the type of relationship we are in, most of us are happy with our lot. According to the 2019 nationwide survey by eharmony, 83 percent of Americans said they were "happy" in romantic relationships with their partner or spouse. Just one in nine couples reported being extremely or relatively unhappy.

    eharmony Report

    #32

    All relationship conflicts can be resolved.

    Quite the opposite, actually. According to Gottmans' research, 69% of relationship issues are perpetual (or reoccurring). This indicates that most relationship problems are not actually resolvable, suggesting that accepting one another's character differences is key to making the relationship work. To prevent stagnation and resentment, talk about these ongoing difficulties. In this case, the aim is to manage conflict rather than solve it.

    The Gottman Institute Report

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    #33

    Stress will inevitably affect intimacy.

    It’s okay if you don’t feel in the mood for a tender caress after a stressful day. Nevertheless, intimacy in your relationship doesn’t have to be permanently harmed by a demanding job or another burden life may throw your way. Try to control your stress for the sake of your partner and your general health. With effort, you may learn to lessen what feels like endless suspense and appreciate more vulnerable times with the one you love.

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    #34

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Couples in a great relationship can read each other’s minds.

    As thrilling as that would be, most of us aren't psychics. It is unfair and naive to assume that your partner will know exactly what you need or feel like at any given time. Yeah, you've been together for quite a while and could be familiar with one another's preferences. Still, you cannot always assume you will understand the other person's feelings or the reasons behind their emotions.

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    #35

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Talking about past emotional wounds will only make them worse.

    You can't change the past, but you can heal the past in the present by doing the work on yourself. Therapy, self-help books, meditation—there are plenty of tools available at your disposal to stop past wounds from impeding your current relationships. In a new relationship, it's important to stop dwelling on the past. However, certain matters, even (and especially) unpleasant ones, are still important to discuss. You should talk about your health, problems that could hinder having kids, and disabling conditions that would make engaging in particular activities challenging. Also, your partner has a right to know whether past financial issues might imperil your relationship.

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    #36

    Honesty is the best policy.

    How often have we heard "I'm just being honest" in response to a particularly offensive or deceitful statement? Sometimes telling the truth is the kindest and most courteous thing to do. Sometimes it's the harshest response, a way to cut off communication. If you don't want to be with someone, you can be honest in a way that won't echo in their minds for a long time. That's respect and maturity.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    11 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't forget "No offense but..." Any time you hear that the person is about to be offensive.

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    #37

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Romance should always come naturally.

    The excitement of being in love might wear off after some time, and romantic gestures may appear to be few and far between. But comfort shouldn’t be misinterpreted as a lack of chemistry. While it might require some work to rekindle the romance that first flowed easily, a little forethought can get things moving once again. The flame might have lit itself first, but now it’s your job to fire things up.

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    #38

    "Your relationship will mirror your parents."

    While you may resemble your parents in many ways, how you act in close relationships might differ considerably. Several elements affect how you interact in your relationship, and while experiences in your life may impact how you behave, they do not entirely define you. Know that if your parents’ relationship could really use some work, you are not doomed to undergo the same destiny as them.

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    Vermonta
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I guess I better put on some pearls while we yell about who made the bathroom smell worse. I still remember my dad yelling at my mom "oh sure, yours smells like roses"

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    #39

    Constructive criticism helps the relationship grow.

    Nagging, defined as continuously reminding your partner to do (or not to do) something, is a toxic silent relationship killer. Honesty is essential, but repeated criticism can cause a wall to form between you. The target of the criticism may begin to feel unworthy and withdraw. Even though your intentions are good, a compulsive desire to point out “a better way” might hinder your ability to grow as a relationship.

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    JK
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is why there's a difference between "constructive criticism" and "repeated criticism/nagging". Offering constructive criticism when appropriate is not the same as "a compulsive desire to point out a "better way"..." and whilst yes, nagging can cause a huge decline in the relationship, finding the root of the nagging is worth noting and correcting. If you're being nagged at for the same things over and over, then that's the problem and you either fix it or you end the relationship because one of you is refusing to see the others perspective (regardless of who is/isn't doing the nagging). It won't get better if you're both not willing to work on issues that crop up, or perceived repeated failings on one persons part

    #40

    If you feel doubt, get out!

    While it's necessary and reasonable to follow your gut, it's also possible that there are other variables at play. You must discern between normal concerns and actual red flags. Red flags typically relate to abuse, addiction, and other non-negotiables or deal-breakers in the relationship. But other concerns are often only bothersome thoughts that originate from deeper anxiety. The conventional relationship myth would suggest, if facing any doubt, to leave the ship altogether, when in reality, it's perfectly keeping afloat. Delve deeper and determine the actual source of your concern. Could it be an avoidant attachment style? You not being ready to settle down yet? Your anxieties might have nothing to do with the other person.

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    Austin L
    Community Member
    10 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Easier said than done; some of these gas-lighters are effective and the truth may take some time to come out.

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    #41

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships You must be “100% sure” when you get married.

    None of us can ever be 100% sure about anything. There's a misconception that having second thoughts implies you shouldn't get married, but in most cases, these fears and anxieties are very normal. It takes a lot of commitment to become married. Why wouldn't that worry you a little bit? And if you feel, let's say, 80% ready before you go down the aisle, you should know you're in the majority.

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    #42

    You need to have lots of s*x to have a happy relationship.

    Is it important in a relationship? Absolutely. Can a relationship last without engaging in it on a regular basis, though? Without a doubt. Different people will have different physical needs. It's important to keep in mind that there is no universal prescription that works for everyone. Instead, communicate with your partner to identify each other's specific wants and preferences. No other factors but your mutual enjoyment should matter.

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    #43

    We all love/feel loved in the same way.

    Lack of understanding of how the other person expresses and receives love is one of the primary relationship problems. According to the best-selling book by Gary Chapman, "The 5 Love Languages" (definitely recommend giving it a read), there are five different love languages: words of affirmation (compliments), quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Things make so, SO much more sense once you know which one(s) your partner speaks.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The problem is getting your gift giving husband to read the damn book. 😆

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    #44

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships The ring needs to cost approximately 3-4 months’ salary.

    An old wives' tale states that the man (or the one making the proposal) should spend three to four months' worth of wages on the engagement ring. Why this exact amount? How come it shows your devotion to your partner or your readiness to get hitched? Reduce that amount by one-fourth and use the remaining money to pay for your next big outlay, the wedding, as a favor to both you and your future partner. Or put money down for the future.

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    JK
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This "rule" is not an old wives tale. It was actually a marketing campaign by the De Beers diamond company back in the 1930s. It's literally nothing more than an advertising slogan. The retail cost is not what should make an engagement ring valuable, it's the sentiment to you that does.

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    #45

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships Marriage is just a piece of paper.

    We are aware that marriage isn't for everyone. Perhaps you tried, and it was different from what you had hoped it would be. Or maybe you and your partner believe it won't make a difference in your relationship. Yet, for many, it's more than just a paper. The vows—the "I will," "I do," and "till death do us part"—they all count. A public statement of love and commitment is only one aspect of marriage. It goes beyond a ritual, a symbol, or a tradition. That piece of paper is an affirmation. A promise. It's not a guarantee for a happy marriage. Yet that paper carries a heavy load of devotion, love, and sacrifice.

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    Patricia Reistad
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It absolutely is just a piece of paper. It is a legal and binding contract. The commitment one makes with their partner- in whatever way the two of you decide-is the truest form of a marriage. We don’t need to announce to the world in an elaborate ceremony. Everyone will know the devotion two people share by their actions. A piece of paper doesn’t show that.

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    #46

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships What couples fight about most is s*x, money, and children.

    Although the top three "favorite" topics for couples to fight about are s*x, money, and children, various other issues also come up. Those often include division of labor, in-laws, the timing of life events, spending quality time together, pet peeves, jealousy, friends, communication, job, control, and politics. These arguments are often the outcome of attempts to emotionally connect that failed. In these few times, turning toward rather than turning away is crucial. If the disagreement is left unsolved, it will very likely come up again and again in the future until you two reach a mutual understanding.

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    Vermonta
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I ask my husband "is this what you want to fight about tonight?" It makes us reevaluate if its worth the argument.

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    #47

    There’s a set timeline for when milestones should occur in a relationship.

    It's 2023; there is no fixed schedule that couples must adhere to. The expectation that everyone should be engaged, married, have children, and own a home by a certain age is unwarranted and only adds to the existential dread that so many of us already experience. Each of us has our own timeline that is ideal and works for us. Moreover, not all of the "checkpoints" will be on every timeline. Not everyone wants to start a family or even get married. And that's perfectly fine.

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    #48

    49 Relationship Myths That Might Be Impeding Your Relationships People in happy relationships don't flirt. If they do, they are unhappy and looking for someone else.

    Flirting has little to do with your dissatisfaction with a relationship; it is a construct. Yet, as is frequently the case, context is essential. A single instance of flirting is not a warning indication that something is amiss. Still, if your partner flirts in front of you frequently and ignores you, it is more indicative of disrespect. In the bar, casual conversation with another person is usually not a reason for alarm. Still, everything we do can be harmful depending on how we go about it. That might be a simple blunder or a sign of something more serious.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They could also be clueless. My lovely, almost disgustingly loyal SO is friendly to everyone and doesn't see how people often take it as flirting. I've pointed it out to him before and he's genuinely perplexed. It never occurred to him that being nice is akin to flirting for a lot of people. It used to drive me mad but he's never done or said anything inappropriate. He's just nice.

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    #49

    "Once a cheater, always a cheater."

    No person should ever have to deal with betrayal, yet it happens way too often. Yet, as preachers of positivity, we do believe that people can change and that a relationship can be saved if a person is genuinely sorry and wants to fix it. Many individuals heed the advice of friends and family to break things off immediately and never look back, but other people live to regret it. Get therapy and identify what wasn't working and why before leaving and abandoning all you had together.

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    JK
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just don't be too naive in assuming that because you've forgiven/been forgiven, that it's totally forgotten. You both have to be willing to fix what was broken and accept that things will be different going forward. It doesn't matter how much you both want to move forward, if you don't deal with what's happened then it'll forever hold you back.

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