College is usually seen as the transition from childhood to adulthood, so why does it seem like everyone in college is so immature?
It may seem like all guys are looking for is a hookup or all girls are looking for is someone to share their bed with late at night, but there ARE people in college who want to be in a relationship; you just have to know what to look for!
If you’re looking forward to getting into a relationship in college, but don’t know what you should be looking for, stick with these simple guidelines for choosing the right partner for you.
1. Honesty is the best policy.
The most important quality that someone should possess is honesty.
No one wants to be involved with a liar or someone who has problems with telling the whole truth. If you are not able to be honest around the person you are crushing on or you find them being less-than-truthful with you, this could be a huge red flag.
Both parties must understand that honesty IS the best policy and it’s best to be honest and open in the beginning of the relationship so both parties know what type of person they’re dealing with.
2. Respect is key.
Respect yourself and others and you will run into fewer problems in your new relationship. It’s not just about respecting the person either, you should always respect someone else’s space, property or friends/family, as well.
Showing that you are respectful and that you don’t tolerate people who are disrespectful is something you should establish early on in the relationship.
Don’t your gossip or talk about your partner to others; it’s rude and shows a lack of maturity. If you have an issue with someone or even your partner, with the right words and emotions to back it up, talk to them and resolve the issue.
3. Work hard, play harder.
Someone who works hard whether it’d be in school or work, shows a certain level of determination and orientation toward achieving goals. Being dedicated in school and work shows that this potential partner will not only be a great provider, but will probably put 100% into your relationship, as well.
After working hard, they should be able to play even harder; that balance is very important. By being able to separate work and play, this person won’t find it hard to strike the correct balance between spending time with you and remaining successful in all other aspects of his/her life.
4. Don’t cling to each other.
It’s always nice to be around each other, but try not to be clingy as if you were a child; own your own life!
Have your own hobbies and time to yourself to spend alone or with your friends. Spending time apart is a healthy part of a relationship; by giving each other space and time to miss one another, your bond will be even stronger.
Sometimes, you never really know how much yo care about something until you’re away from them for a while so don’t forget to give you and your partner space.
5. Be yourself.
Most importantly, never lose sight of who you really are. Understand the basis of yourself and what really makes you, YOU.
Sure, many of us find ourselves changing for our relationship because we must comprise, but there are parts of you that make you unique and special and you should never change who you are to please someone else.
With all that said, don’t forget the golden rule: do unto others as you want done to you.
Maturing into adulthood doesn’t happen over night. It takes time and patience. Find that special someone not JUST based on their looks, but their personality as well. Look for the aforementioned qualities and you will be on your way to being in a happy and healthy relationship in no time.
