A romantic relationship has its ups and downs. When you have been dating the same person for several months or years, you may feel the need to take stock of your relationship. However, it is not always easy to take the necessary perspective on the situation, or on what you are experiencing, in order to make the right decisions about the future of your couple. Do you doubt your own feelings because of a routine that sets in? Are you still on the same page as your partner? To see more clearly, Jeffrey Bernstein, an American psychologist, recommends asking three questions in the columns of “Psychology Today.”
Do I miss him?
The first question to ask yourself to take stock of how you feel for your companion is whether you miss him in his absence. “The fact that you miss someone means that they are an important part of your heart and mind. When you are separated, whether because of work, travel, or other commitments, the desire to be with him may indicate that your feelings are still strong”, highlights the expert. “The lack of your partner is more than just physical presence: it’s about the lack of their company, their laughter, and the comfort they provide,” he adds. Feeling excited to see him again is another sign of attachment and love for your lover. However, be careful not to confuse love with emotional dependence
Do I like his company?
Enjoying the company of your loved one is an essential criterion for a successful relationship, and a crucial indicator of how you feel about your partner. “Are you eager to participate in activities together, whether mundane or exciting? Do you enjoy simple moments, like having breakfast or watching a movie together on the couch? ” asks Jeffrey Bernstein. On the other hand, if you are indifferent to his presence, your feelings may be running out of steam.
Can I imagine a future together?
Envisioning the future with your partner says a lot about how much you still feel for him or her. “This means considering long-term plans, goals, and dreams, and considering your partner as part of those aspirations,” explains the psychologist again. “It reflects a commitment to growing together and dealing with the ups and downs of life as a team.”
If your answers to these questions are positive, they can be a sign of a strong emotional connection and love that is still strong. Questioning how you feel is not always worrisome, since a romantic relationship fluctuates, and that is why it is often constructive.
