A relationship takes caution. Our experiences differ and this is based on years of experience and also our exposures. We have those who want to stake their claim and have things other control. Sometimes this tussle for relevance and recognition has caused a lot of issues in relationships.
Most of the guys I have seen or heard of want to exercise their rights as "a man" and then enforce some things on the ladies because of their desire to be in "control" and of course, for the big word - ego. Some actually want the lady to be subjected to them, and this is not how a relationship should be. The moment you have to exert yourself through forceful dealings, you have lost that liberty of being called a man.
Let's check this, a lion is a lion, whether it roars or not, you still wouldn’t want to move near the lion. As a man, you can be a man without having to make your partner live in fear or make her feel inferior. Only those who enjoy manipulation do these and those who are not evaluating their actions from time to time.
In a relationship, you don't have to demand attention, it should come naturally with your partner. Life happens and there would be things that would demand your attention but you need to balance it with your partner and when you find it hard to balance it, communicate it. It helps a great deal when you carry your partner along and trust them to understand and show consideration but don't overplay it. Find time when you really can to make up for the lost ones. Most people assume for their partners and think "He or she cannot understand". Stop assuming and start communicating. Do your part and let them do theirs.
We all have our different love languages and for some, it might be quality time. Don't expect them to understand you whenever you are not making a genuine effort to at least make it easier. Both parties should find a common ground and they should be deliberate about it. A relationship takes caution and it requires constant watering. Imagine growing a garden and you are not watering it. Over time, the flowers soon withers. See your relationship as a flower that needs constant pruning, watering, attention, care and sensitivity.
Seeking balance is everything, even in life and more so in your relationship. You have to balance your emotions because your emotion is your life. When you have children, you have to find space to love your children alongside your spouse. Little cracks can sink a strong relationship and I am sure we are familiar with how the Titanic sunk. Those cracks might not be visible to the eyes yet but they go deep and they determine a lot because it makes you disconnect from the tune of your partner and once that happens, that relationship is already nose-diving.
Care about what your partner has to say. Don't overlook the little details. Show that you care and don't hide under 'I am busy'. We all know that no matter how busy we are, we can make time for what is truly important. Make an effort at least. Trust your partner to discuss what is eating you up, it would help you both bond well while seeking for a solution, communicate more and even show more understanding.
A relationship is not only about you, so don’t be selfish. Think about the other person too, and it will help your choices better.
Don't base your decisions on the advice of those who don't have to deal with the results or the consequences. Society has changing standards based on how they feel that's why you don't need to impress anyone out there.
A relationship is more technical. It is not like buying cloth in a mall and after you feel it wasn't a "right fit" you can return it. The same society you are trying to impress would still be the same society that would blame you and then start counting your breakups for you. Be cautious. Take your time. Give your relationship your all. Find a balance, trust and communicate more.
Relationship is all about teamwork and it's not give and take, it keeps giving and never gets tired of loving. It's not returning when it doesn't fit, it's making it fit and do the necessary changes with the support of each other or it's the partner buying a new one if you get sexier or healthier. It's making a laugh out of everything and it makes life brighter.