The idea that you can have an erotic identity within a relationship is something that many people believe to be impossible.
It is very possible for couples to remain true to their own identities even when they share one common bond together. There are several ways to accomplish this feat, but there are no set rules on how to go about doing so. It all depends upon the couple and what works best for them as individuals. Here are five tips to help you maintain your individuality while sharing a relational identity with your partner.
1) Make sure that you each have separate hobbies and interests outside of the relationship. This will give you more time apart from each other and allow you to explore yourself without having to rely solely on your partner.
If he likes watching football and she enjoys reading books, then perhaps she could go out and read a book every now and then while he watches football games alone. If she likes playing tennis and he prefers swimming, then maybe he could join a local swim team while she plays tennis with friends during her free time. The key is to find activities that make you happy and provide some sort of escape from the everyday stresses of life.
2) Keep communication open between you both throughout the day by texting or calling each other regularly. You don't want to become too dependent on one another because then it might seem like you aren't spending enough quality time together. Also, try to avoid discussing work issues until after hours. Talking about work all day long will drain your energy levels and leave little room for passionate moments later on at night. Instead, focus on positive things such as future plans, funny stories, and anything else that brings joy into your lives.
3) Maintain healthy habits such as eating well, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and taking care of yourself physically. All these things contribute greatly towards keeping your body fit and healthy. When you feel good mentally and physically, you will be able to enjoy sex more often than not.
4) Spend time apart doing what interests you individually instead of always being together. Doing so allows you to recharge emotionally and gives you something else to look forward to when you reunite later in the evening. Try going for walks alone, hanging out with friends, meeting up with family members, or even traveling somewhere new. Don't let distance come between you two because it can cause resentment and arguments down the road.
Remember that nothing lasts forever. Life throws us curveballs from time to time, and sometimes relationships end prematurely due to outside circumstances beyond our control. If this happens, then you need to learn how to deal with grief while continuing forward without your significant other. This may involve seeking professional help if necessary, but ultimately you must take charge of your life by moving forward toward a brighter tomorrow.
How do couples maintain a sense of erotic individuality while sharing a relational identity?
The concept of erotic individuality is essential for the development and maintenance of a healthy romantic relationship. It refers to each partner's ability to retain their unique sexual desires, fantasies, and behaviors even when they are part of a couple (Basson & Trost, 2010).