Relationship Myths That Hurt Your Long-Term Happiness

As with anything else in life, having a solid understanding of relationships and its related dynamics is integral if one wants to have a positive experience. Unfortunately, society has created a number of relationship myths that have been either propagated through misguided stories or remain prevalent due to our own misconceptions. These myths have the potential to derail success in relationships and set individuals on a course for less than desirable outcomes. Here we have compiled a list of common relationship myths that can hurt your long-term happiness.

Myth 1: Love conquers all

Love isn’t always enough to make a relationship successful. No matter how much love exists between two people, it isn’t a substitute for communication, trust, effort, and commitment. Furthermore, two individuals must be able to handle the challenges that arise in their lives and relationship with each other. That’s why it’s important to face issues head on and rely on effective strategies to resolve conflicts. When it comes to relationships, putting effort into finding solutions and working together as a team are essential to a couple’s happiness.

Myth 2: Partners should always agree

Just because two people come together in a relationship does not mean that they must always be in agreement on every issue. It is normal — almost crucial — for partners to disagree and to have different viewpoints, values, and beliefs. Although opposing ideas can lead to confusions and anxiety within the relationship, disagreements are opportunities to gain better understandings of one another. Partners need not see such consistent alignment of ideas in order to sustain strong relationships. After all, who wants to be around someone they could predict word-for-word?

Myth 3: Couples need to spend all of their time together

Many readers likely have heard phrases like “absence makes the heart grow fonder” or “distance makes the heart grow stronger.” While appropriate for certain circumstances, couplings should not feel obligated to spend all of their time together and sometimes having some space from one another can actually help build a stronger connection. Consider when many of us first became intimate with someone and it felt as though every waking moment had to be shared — that comes with immense pressure to adhere to unrealistic expectations. Balance is key; being able to spend quality time together without overexerting yourselves is integral to overcoming this myth.

Myth 4: Sex is the most important factor in a relationship

It’s true that physical intimacy plays an important role in many relationships and between couples. Yet, relationships that are highly focused on physical attractiveness and little else often lack depth and can quickly become tediously repetitive. Studies have found that those who form quality connections beyond just purely physical gratification demonstrate greater compatibility and longer-lasting relationships. After all, relationships require more than just sexual compatibility to sustain them in the long run.

Myth 5: Couples need to have everything in common

Having a few shared interests is great, but having too much in common might not always be the best thing. Research over the years has shown that pairing individuals with similar personalities or similar interests has explosive endings. It is suggested that the differences be embraced and accepted, allowing couples to learn from one another and use their differences as an opportunity to explore one another’s hobbies and apply different perspectives. Establishing a sense of autonomy and selfhood within relationships gives the terms “me” and “we” a whole new meaning – allowing members to be comfortable and content within the relationship and beyond.

We hope that by debunking these five myths about relationships, we have promoted a healthier outlook for couples who are seeking greater fulfillment within their relationship. We understand that at times, things can get challenging. Always remember to don’t forget that positive communication is always the key to unlocking the mystery in unlocking lasting and blissful relationships.