Dating Advice
Is It Okay to Keep Celebrating the Bare Minimum?
“He gave me flowers! He’s so cute!”
“Really? That’s bare minimum.”
“And he’s been loyal to me, too!”
“Still the bare minimum, sis.”
Today’s dating culture has two more words to feast on. As eye-opening as it can be, others are also left confused about what really constitutes a “bare minimum.”
Has it become that difficult to distinguish between romantic gestures and simple acts of respect?
It’s common to think of doing the bare minimum as sufficient to keep things going, but this may not be the best approach if you want to really last long with your sweetheart.
What Is the Bare Minimum in a Relationship?
In a relationship, a bare minimum is when one or both partners exert any extra effort, emotional investment, or commitment. This can results in feelings of discontent, neglect, and unhappiness.
However, it can be difficult for one to decipher if his or her partner is actually doing the work or simply giving you crumbs of love to keep you around.
The truth can be subjective, and you can make yourself believe just about anything. Especially when you’re so infatuated with someone that you yearn for any sense of reciprocation to the point where you cling to… well, the bare minimum.
Set Bare Minimum Standards!
There is still hope. By establishing these essential expectations, you can still break free from the terrible pattern of ego-driven attachment:
Honesty
Honesty within the relationship entails being open and transparent with your feelings AND intentions. When you communicate honestly with one another, you eliminate misunderstandings and lay the groundwork for trust. It also creates an atmosphere of safety where you can both show who you really are without worrying about being judged.
Respect for Boundaries
Maintain your individuality by being assertive of your boundaries. What are the things that take you to your limit? Communicate this to your partner and expect them to understand and honor these in the same way that you would.
Boundaries should encompass time and space, as well as digital, emotional, and physical aspects. Say goodbye to holding grudges against someone who cannot give you what you want due to your inability to communicate.
Quality Time
Make quality time a priority, whether it is through a date night, a shared hobby, or even just running errands together at the farmer’s market. These are chances to bond and maintain vitality and vibrancy of your relationship.
To the greatest extent possible, try to spend time together without being distracted by technology or others who might interfere so that you can give each other your whole attention.
Sincere Apologies
There are those who can’t do this because of pride and ego. But that doesn’t mean you have to put up with it. One can tell someone is decent and respectful when they voluntarily apologize after making a mistake.
However, it’s crucial to pay attention to their tone when they apologize to ensure that it’s genuine and that they’re genuinely acknowledging the impact of their actions.
Commitment
If you play silly games, you win silly prizes. You’ll be wasting time with people who see you as nothing more than a source of pleasure if you don’t establish a need for commitment when you first start dating.
Commitment is expressed through consistent efforts, dedication to resolving challenges, and a clear desire to grow together. If they don’t exhibit these, know that you can always leave and find someone better.
To sum it all up, your bare minimum standard should be to find a relationship that makes you feel safe and open. That is the essence of self-respect, isn’t it? Doing what you know is best for yourself?
Before you turn in for the night, remember this: You are worthy of more than the bare minimum.
