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8 Signs of Sexual Tension and What To Do About It


Sexual tension exists when two people are physically attracted to one another, want to be physical with each other, but hold back for one reason or another.

Sexual tension is most often found in groups of friends or in the workplace. It can develop out of almost nowhere. One day you are buddies and the next your heart races when you look at each other and you start to see them differently.

You may not be sure if your friend is feeling the pull that you are but when sexual tension exists there will be signs.

8 Signs Of Sexual Tension


Eye Contact

When there is sexual tension between two people there is a lot of direct, intense eye contact. Your eyes will show your desire for each other and the fire you feel inside. Your eyes will betray you.

Butterflies In The Stomach

Sexual tension between you and another will make you feel giddy and give you butterflies in the stomach. You will feel like a teenager again, in the best, most exciting way possible.

Awkward Interactions

Some relationships have sexual tension from the start, while others have it develop over time. When sexual tension exists you can become unsure of how to act in front of each other. You want to hide your desire and play it cool so things start to feel super awkward.

You Get Physically Close

The sexual tension exists because you two are physically attracted to each other and deep down want to sleep together. For one reason or another you two are not moving in that direction yet so you choose the next best thing and that is getting physically close to one another.

Casual Touches

You want to touch each other any time you can. Whether it’s just a touch of the fingers when passing something to the other or a casual hand on the back or arm as a greeting or a goodbye. You cannot do what you really want to them so you will settle for any physical interaction you can get.

You Flirt With Innuendos

When there is sexual tension between two people it will often reflect in their communications with each other. When you are around each other you cannot stop thinking about how much you want them which starts to leak out in conversation, emails, and texts with comments and jokes that seem to be of a more sexual nature.

Others Notice

When there is sexual tension between two people it is usually felt by those around them as well. It is palpable. Others will notice that there is something between you two, and some may even comment. It’s hard to hide an intense attraction for someone for an extended period of time when around others

You Just Know It

You know that you are attracted to them, and that you desire them, and you can feel their desire and attraction to you as well. They are sending you vibes and your gut is telling you everything you need to know.

What To Do About Your Sexual Tension

When dealing with sexual tension between you and another, you really only have three options. The first option is to ignore the sexual tension. You may choose to ignore because you actually like the current status quo. You are not ready to make a decision to move things to the next level, but you are enjoying the sexual tension and feelings it gives you.

The sexual tension and attraction may fizzle out over time on its own, which may mean it was never meant to be.

The second option is to discuss it and get it all out in the open. The conversation may be awkward, but if someone doesn’t make a move and ask the other out and address the sexual “elephant” in the room, then you will remain in a never ending cycle of flirting and giddiness.

Life is too short to remain in limbo, so eventually something should happen one way or another.

The final and best option is consummation. The build up of the sexual tension can mean a powerful sexual encounter, once it actually happens. Of course this will likely involve option two to some degree, but it doesn’t require some long drawn out discussion.

If the moment is right, and opportunity strikes, no words may be necessary. Your eyes and body language will do the talking, and the rest will hopefully be mind blowing.

What are your thoughts on dealing with sexual tension? Do you address it, ignore it, or hope things unfold naturally somehow? Please share your thoughts and experience!

“Our eyes met and our souls caught on fire.” ― Nikki Rowe

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The Dangers of Ultimatums In Relationships

Ultimatums can mean the death of a relationship. An ultimatum is a final demand that if not met you will be faced with a retaliation or a break in relations. It is basically a do this or else statement.

By definition an ultimatum sounds harsh, but they are sometimes necessary to get results or force a decision. While being the recipient of an ultimatum you are given the “or else” up front, but the giver of the ultimatum will likely face consequences as well, especially in a romantic relationship.

An ultimatum should never be given lightly or frequently in a relationship because it can backfire and appear manipulative.

5 Dangers of Giving An Ultimatum In Your Relationship

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They Give In But Resent You

You may give an ultimatum to your partner and get your way, but it may not be a win in the end. You need to keep in mind that you basically pressured and threatened your partner in order to get them to do something you wanted them to do, and something they clearly did not want to do.

While they may give in, the ultimatum will not be forgotten, and resentment may fester, wreaking havoc on your relationship in the long run.

They May Become Unhappy

An ultimatum is one sided, no matter how you look at it. It is not a win win. There is a winner and a loser so to speak. You give an ultimatum to get your way, whether it is deserved or not is irrelevant to your partner’s feelings.

If you are strong arming, or guilting them into doing something they do not want to do they are not likely to be happy about it. Do not fool yourself into thinking you know what’s best for them because they know their heart and mind better than you do.

They Give Ultimatums Too

Once you start giving ultimatums in your relationship, you set a standard of behavior. You should expect that at some point in your relationship your partner will give you an ultimatum too. And the fact that you have used this card in the past will make it hard for you disagree with this tactic when you partner uses it on you.

They Call Your Bluff

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When issuing an ultimatum in your relationship be prepared for your bluff to be called. I have known people who have told their partners that if they didn’t marry them the relationship was over. Or if we don’t have kids the marriage is over.

What if they say no? Be prepared to walk away from the relationship before letting that ultimatum come out of your mouth, or don’t say it at all. You will only look foolish and manipulative otherwise.

They Lose Trust In You

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An ultimatum is a power play. Giving an ultimatum is also a form of manipulation. Once your partner starts to feel like they are being manipulated, they will start to question your trustworthiness.

Although I am not a fan of ultimatums in general, some ultimatums are necessary. Sometimes it has to come down to either stop drinking so much or I am out of here. Or if this relationship is not heading towards marriage then I am done.

It’s your life too so you get verbalize your wants and desires. But you also need to be prepared for the blow back you are sure to receive when you force someone’s hand.

When times get tough, and they will because that is life, your partner will remember that you twisted their arm into marrying you or having kids, or moving somewhere, and they will resent you or even hate you.

What are your thoughts on ultimatums? Have you ever given one in a relationship? How did things work out? Please share your thoughts and experience!

“When my husband gives me this ultimatum, "You either stop singing, or you move out," then it became very clear that what I needed to do - not just because I wanted to sing, but because I didn't want to live with anybody who issued ultimatums to me like that - would be to move out.” - Rene Marie

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7 Signs He Truly Loves You

Being in love is such a wonderful feeling. It’s not just about how you feel about the other person, but also about how they make you feel about yourself and as a couple.

When you feel truly loved by someone you feel supported, and happy, and special. Being loved by that certain someone is like having a secret super power. I mean you were already awesome, but their love just somehow gives you an extra something.

You feel in love with them, and they tell you that they love you too. It is always nice to hear the words “I love you” from someone you love, but at the end of the day that’s all they are, just words. Actions are more of a true reflections of someone’s thoughts and feelings.

People can say anything, but real love requires effort and more than lip service. There are some undeniable signs that he truly loves you.

7 Signs He Truly Loves You

He Is Affectionate

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The way he looks at you. The way he talks to you. The way he touches you. His body language and his non-sexual interactions with you will show you how much he cares.

He Cares About Your Happiness

A man who truly loves you will want you to be happy, even if that means an inconvenience or sacrifice on his part. You being happy makes him happy too. Your happiness is a priority to him.

He Is Supportive

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A man who truly loves you will be your one man cheering section and your biggest fan. He will give you words of encouragement and will lift you up when you are feeling down. When he loves you, he is proud of you and believes in you.

He Is Protective

A man who loves you will be very protective of you. He will never want to see you hurting, and will always come to your defense. He also takes care to not be a source of pain for you by treating you with respect, and minding his actions and words.

He Is Thoughtful

A man who loves is always thinking of you. When he is out and about without you, many things will bring you to his mind. A song on the radio, a scent in the air, or even a location you once visited. He truly listens to you when you talk and remembers what you say and what you like.

He will pick up your favorite flowers for you just because, or fill up your gas tank without you asking.

He “Sees” You

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A man can only truly love you if he sees and accepts the real you. If a man has seen the worst of you and still looks deep and lovingly into your eyes with no judgement he truly loves you.

He Misses You When Apart

It’s so cute how much a man in love misses you when you are apart. A man who truly loves you will miss you like crazy when he is away from you. He may not say it, but the phone calls, and texts he sends when you two are apart is his way of telling you he misses you.

Being in love is about an emotional connection. The connection is either there or it isn’t. When a man is in love with you it is usually pretty obvious whether he says the words or not. Strangers will be able to pick up on his love and adoration for you. It is quite special and sweet.

Are you able to recognize when a man truly loves you? Hearing the words is nice, but don’t get caught up in words. His actions are far more important and telling than any three words could ever be. So what are your thoughts on recognizing a man in love? Please share your thoughts and experience!

“I want you. All of you. Your flaws. Your mistakes. Your imperfections. I want you, and only you.” – John Legend

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Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein

6 Relationship Red Flags

Dating and taking things slow with someone new serves a purpose. Diving right in to a relationship with a man or woman you barely know is not wise to say the least. The whole point of dating is to get to know the person, find out capability, and to flesh out any behaviors or traits that are dealbreakers for you.

In a new relationship, you may become so fascinated by your new boo that you start to miss the red flags that you definitely should be looking for. Knowing what signs to be on the lookout for is important, and will ultimately save you a lot of heartache and grief in the long run.

6 Relationship Red Flags To Avoid

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Red Flag #1 He’s A Taker

Everything revolves around him and what he wants. He is showing signs of being selfish. He is selfish with his time, selfish with money, and he is even selfish in bed. Selfish people will always ask for more than they give, which is not a behavior likely to change in the future.

Plus, selfish men make bad lovers, and who wants to put up with that.

Red Flag #2 He Has Questionable Employment

Does he describe himself as an entrepreneur or always seems to be “in between” jobs? Is his current career or employment, and past employment, sounding a little sketchy to you? If you are not sure what he does for a living, or doubt that he is telling is the truth, then you are getting a big red flag that you need to listen to.

People go through hard times for sure, but someone who is struggling to get their life together is someone who should be focusing on that, not on dating.

Red Flag #3 His Living Situation

You have never been to his home or if his living situation seems questionable, the that is a red flag. Depending on his age, there is nothing wrong with him having roommates, but there is a lot he can be hiding if you never go to his place. Maybe he is still living at home with his parents, or worse he is living with his girlfriend or wife.

He may also be crashing on someone’s couch, which means he has some instability in his life and things he needs to focus on other than dating.

Red Flag #4 He Has Bad Habits

You need to pay attention if they seem to be a heavy partier, drinker, or gambler. In the early stages we get to see the best a romantic partner has to offer. If questionable behaviors are popping up like drinking, gambling, and drug use, you need to ask yourself if this is someone you want to have in your life.

Don’t try to rescue him or make him your project. Your job is to focus on making a good life for yourself. Besides, you can easily get in over your head trying to deal with someone with addiction issues if you are not a professional.

Red Flag #5 He’s Has A Temper

When you first met him he was fun loving, sweet, and kind. That’s partly what drew you to him. But if you start seeing flashes of anger, rudeness, and unkindness, consider it a red flag. None of us are perfect. And all of us can be angered under the right circumstances, but if he lashes at you or others people with cruel words and cruel behavior, he may be hiding an abusive side.

You do not want to end up in an emotionally or physically abusive relationship, so take this red flag sign very serious.

Red Flag #6 Something Seem Not Quite Right About Him

He often seems great, then other times something about him seems not quite right. He is handsome, and funny, and so easy to talk to, but alarm bells are sounding internally telling you that he is not what he seems. Your instincts are telling you that he is hiding a part of himself, and wearing a mask. This is a big pretender red flag. What you see is not what you get.

Some red flags are more obvious than others. When it comes to deciding who to date, who to spend time with, and who to love, you should listen to your head and gut, and not ignore the obvious signs that he’s not a keeper.

What are your thoughts on identifying red flags? Do you take your cues from red flags or do you ignore them?Please share your experience with calling it quits because of red flags, or ignoring them and having a relationship work out.

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Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein

Is It A Break Or A Break Up?

Sometimes we need a break from a relationship, and other times we just need to break up. Some relationships are meant to be, and if you are meant to be together things will come together for the two of you. But if it is not meant to be you will not find your way back to each other mentally or emotionally.

No matter what the reason is for the break, your true intentions and their intentions should be clear. It needs to be understood if whether the break is to take some time apart to make things better, or if it is really just an extended break up because neither of you have the courage to call it quits.

If you are unsure if your relationship is just on a break or if you have really broken up, I have some guidelines for you.

How To Tell If It’s A Break Or A Break Up

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Spending Time Together

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If you are on taking a break from your relationship but still spending time together then you are on a break. It means you care for one another, that you like each other, and still want to spend time together as friends as you figure things out.

Dating Other People

If the moment you two decided you needed a break, and one or both of you starts hitting up the dating sites or starts going to clubs and bars seeking someone new, then it is a break up.

Taking a break from the relationship is supposed to be a time to reflect and maybe reconnect, but if one or both of you is taking this opportunity to see what else is out there then it is time to make the break permanent.

Frequent Communication

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If you continue to talk and text to each other everyday then you are just on a break. Frequent communication during a break means you miss each other, and respect each other enough to keep one another in the loop of what’s going on in your life, and to confide and seek advice.

Sleeping With Other People

If you are taking a break but not officially broken up, you should not be having sex with other people. Sleeping with other people can mean the end of any possible reconciliation.

If one of you sleeps with someone else it will likely be hurtful to your partner. If you are both sleeping with other people on your break, then you are not ready for a committed, monogamous relationship, at least not to each other.

Talking To Your Ex

Photo by nd3000/iStock / Getty Images

Photo by nd3000/iStock / Getty Images

Now that you’re on a break, you or your partner decide to reconnect with your ex. If you are reconnecting with your ex for comfort, friendship, or sex, it is a break up and not just a break. There should be awareness that reconnecting with an ex would be considered extremely hurtful and like a betrayal.

Sometimes a break from a relationship is needed to give you both perspective. Maybe you had started to take each other for granted or were starting feel your love fading away.

A relationship break can be a good a thing or just a delay of the inevitable, but al least now you will have a better idea of whether or not you two will come back together.

What are your thoughts on breaks from a relationship versus a break up? Do they work or do they ultimately turn into a break or make the relationships stronger? Please share your thoughts and experience on this topic?

“When someone leaves, it’s because someone else is about to arrive.” - Paulo Coelho

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Rejection Lessons...Here's Why Being Rejected Is A Good Thing

Rejection hurts. It hurts to be rejected from something you wanted, or thought you wanted. I am a believer in “meant to be”. If you didn’t get the job you wanted or the guy you wanted then it was not meant to be.

Rejection, especially when it comes to love, can make you feel horrible. Rejection can come in the form of not returning feelings and requited love, to a refusal to commit to you, to even cheating or leaving you for another. It may be painful at the time, or for a while, but there are lessons to be learned from the rejection.

5 Takeaways From Rejection

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Maybe It Is You

I know that is not what you wanted to hear, but are you always finding yourself on the receiving end of rejection? You may be asking yourself if there is something wrong with you. Well it is not so much about there being something wrong with you, but the things you do and say.

You may be unintentionally pushing people away or scaring them off by your behavior.

Lowering Your Standards

When we lower our standards we resent it to a large degree. You choose to be in a relationship with some guy or a booty call to a guy who is not really into you or is no good. You know it deep down that you are being used or that he is no good, and push and sabotage subconsciously, hoping he will prove you wrong.

Blindspots

We all have blindspots, especially in relationships that we are determined to make work. Red flags will pop up all over the place but you may choose to ignore them, but eventually you will learn. Things will not work out with a guy full of red flags, but that take away will be to listen to your inner voice and your gut instincts.

With the next guy you will be more cautious, and will not be misled or fooled as easily.

You Are Strong

Rejection doesn’t feel good, but you get through it and live to fight another day. The first heartbreak is the worst. We think this guy is the “one” and if I am not with him I will never be happy. Of course this isn’t true because you will be happy again whether you are single or in another relationship. Rejection teaches us to be self reliant and to create our own happiness.

Leaves The Door Open

A rejection just means another chance at an opportunity. The best thing that can happen to your heart and your love life will be to get rejected from the wrong guy. Wasting time with the wrong man makes you unavailable for the right one.

Although you may feel like it at the time, rejection is not the end of the world. Learn from it, grow, and move the hell on.

How do you handle rejection? Yes it hurts, but do you take it as a lesson learned? If so, what lessons have you learned from being romantically rejected? Please share your thoughts and experience!

“Was I bitter? Absolutely. Hurt? You bet your sweet ass I was hurt. Who doesn't feel a part of their heart break at rejection. You ask yourself every question you can think of, what, why, how come, and then your sadness turns to anger. That's my favorite part. It drives me, feeds me, and makes one hell of a story.”
― Jennifer Salaiz

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Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein

Conflicted About Him? Here's Why You Should Take Some Time Apart

A break from a relationship or a romantic situation does not have to mean a break up or the end of your romance. Time apart can be a good thing, and I am firm believer that distance provides clarity.

Maybe you are questioning if he is the one, you two are not getting along very well, or you have started to feel smothered or overwhelmed by the relationship. Whatever the reason, space can be a positive thing.

If you are in a relationship or in the beginning stages of a budding romance, but are having some doubts about the guy in your life, you may need to step back and take some time apart.

Reasons To Take Time Apart

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To Miss Them Or Not

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The saying that absence makes the heart grow founder is often true. Time apart will give you a chance to miss your mate. Being a way from them may be difficult because you may be missing talking to them, smelling them, and touching them. Missing them is a good sign.

Time apart from your partner may also be a nice break, or feel like a relief. If you feel relieved to be away from your mate, it may be a sign that you need to make your break permanent.

Clarity

They say distance offers clarity, and I couldn’t agree more. Being in the day to day life of a relationship if you are dating, but especially if you live together, it can be hard to pinpoint the issues or the root cause of your doubts.

You need to give yourself space to have that aha moment. Figure out why you feel conflicted about this guy. Is he not who you thought he was or have you just outgrown the relationship? Distancing yourself will help you view him and your relationship more clearly.

Assessment

Much like clarity, time apart will give you the ability to assess your relationship and decide what you really want. Without being overwhelmed by all of your attraction and desire for your guy, time apart can give you the opportunity to assess him, assess the relationship, and decide if he is someone you want to be with long term.

If you feel as if you need some space from a romantic situation, take a break from the relationship. If you believe that you need time, then take the time you need, and don’t feel pressured to stay with someone or in a relationship if you are having doubts. If your partner says they won’t wait for you, then they are not the one for you.

What are your thoughts on taking time apart? Do you think time apart helps, or if there are problems in the relationship a break up should just happen? Please share your thought and experience on time apart!

“If someone makes you miserable more than they make you happy, then it is time to let them go, no matter how much you love them.” - Unknown

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Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein

Does Size Matter In The Bedroom? Here's What 5 Women Had To Say

What happens in the bedroom doesn’t always necessarily stay in the bedroom. Women sometimes share their sexual experiences with their girlfriends, and men sometimes brag about their conquests. Whether the man or women are sharing the bedroom experience, penis size often comes up in these conversations.

As a woman, I have had my own experiences, and definitely have some interesting stories to tell, but I won’t. What I will share is that being a single woman in the dating world can make you feel a bit like Goldilocks. This one is too big, and this one is too small, but where oh where do I find the one that is just right.

Over the years I have heard many men brag about the size of their package, as if the thought of me dying by penis impalement was somehow enticing. Let’s just say, they were wrong. In fact, based on my research many men get this wrong.

Did you know that the average penis size is 5.17 inches? I know, I was a little disappointed too when I saw that number, but at the end of the day I recognize that it’s more about how you work it than what you are working with.

I decided to do some research on what other women thought of importance of penis sizes and what mattered the most to them in the bedroom. If you are a women you will not likely find the results surprising, but for some men this may be an eye opener.

Gina 38, Hairstylist, Engaged

Gina has dated a lot of guys and says does not think that size matters, for the most part, but would prefer an average size penis. She shared a story of having sex with a guy whose penis was so small that the condom kept coming off.

Gina’s large penis experience left her with abdominal pain, and rethinking the idea that bigger was better. Gina thinks that 6 or 7 inches is the perfect size for her.

Missy 44, Personal Trainer, Married

Missy believes that penis size only matters in the extreme. She said she would not be interested in a very large or small penis, but it really comes down to how much you are into the guy and the chemistry you two have.

Missy also thinks that overall bedroom skills are more important than penis size. If a man knows how to mentally stimulate a woman, use his mouth, and work his hips, he will blow her mind.

Nikki 35, Nurse, Single

Nikki is single and dates a lot. She says that penis size has never mattered to her. Nikki believes in the overall pleasure experience, and says there are many ways for a man to satisfy a woman in the bedroom that doesn’t involve his penis.

Pamela 39, Administrator, Married

Pamela says she loves a big penis, but also said that ultimately size doesn’t matter to her. Pamela says there is way more to sex than just penis to vagina penetration. She shared that she is into dirty talk, sex toys, and BDSM. Her bedroom, her rules.

Rebecca 40, Military, Divorced

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Rebecca says she has not had as many sexual partners as some of her friends, but says that she has experienced a very large penis and a very small penis. The guy with the large penis was her boyfriend for 2 years.

Rebecca said that some days she just dreaded his penis. She preferred being on top with him because she could control his entry, but she found doggie style to be too painful. Rebecca found the small penis guy to be lacking in skills, and said his thrust felt pointless.

According to women, when it comes down to it, a man’s penis size is not that important to the overall pleasure for a sexual encounter. Women say size doesn’t matter unless the penis is well above or below average. Average size is just right.

So if there are any guys reading this, the one thing you should take take away from this blog is the importance of foreplay, especially if you’re not packing. Be generous in bed. Give and you shall receive.

What are your thoughts on the importance of penis size in the bedroom? Does it matter to you? Do you have a preference? Please share your thoughts and experience!

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Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein Love and Relationships, Love and Romance Charlene Eckstein

The Pheromone Effect and Why You Crave Him

Sometimes a guy comes along and you find him irresistible. Literally irresistible. I mean you can barely stop yourself from pouncing on him like a wild animal catching its prey.

There is just something about him, but you cannot explain it. He isn’t necessarily the most handsome man you have ever met, but still you are drawn to him. You crave him in every way. When you see him, or just think about him, you want to do things with him and to him that even shock you.

So what is it about him and why do you desire him so bad? Is it possible that it is the pheromone effect?

The Pheromone Effect

A pheromone is a chemical that animals produce, which changes the behavior of another animal of the same species. Pheromones can trigger behaviors, and is known as behavior-altering agents.

Although the pheromone effect in nature is known to trigger behaviors such as fear and mating in animals and insects, the affects on human behavior is more theory and continues to be studied.

While the affects of pheromones in humans is up for debate by some, others believe in the power of pheromones so strongly that they have bottled pheromones. Some people call pheromones a love potion, and whether or not you are a believer, for about $100 you can buy and spray on some sex appeal to attract the one you desire.

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How Does The Pheromone Effect Work

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Some studies have shown that for humans it’s all about smell. Our olfactory receptors can detect odors and smells on a subconscious level. Smells that you are completely unaware of. Just take a man’s perspiration for example.

By a man’s sweat, a woman may be able to detect a man’s testosterone level, which may make her crave his sperm and want to mate with him. It is a very primal reaction.

Humans are after all just animals. Animals who have learned to control and suppress their animal instincts.

Are you a believer in the pheromone effect? I am. The pheromone effect is separate from compatibility and attraction, although the two can overlap. Is it pheromones that creates amazing emotional and sexual chemistry between two people? Probably.

What are your thoughts on the pheromone effect? Have you ever had an unexplainable pull or attraction to someone? Have you ever used a pheromone spray? Please share your thought and experience!

“I want you to want me, I need you to need me, I'd love you to love me” - I Want You To Want Me, Cheap Trick

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Traditional Relationships VS Modern Relationships...Which Is Better?

In today’s world there is a struggle between the old and the new. There are those that are strongly committed to traditional ways of living, including relationships and marriage. There are also people who want to make their own rules and rail against the thought of what is traditional.

I recently read an article which said that traditional relationships tend to last longer. Cue my mental eye roll as I prepare to be told how men being the bread winners with the little woman staying home cooking and cleaning is the key to everlasting love. But that is not quite what the article said.

The article said that traditional relationships with clearly defined roles tend to last longer, and I can see how that makes sense. But I also think that a more modern relationship can also have roles within the relationship and be just as long lasting. Notice the word “lasting”, not the word happiness is being used, but we will get to that.

Traditional Relationship

There are many types of traditional relationships and home lives, but the basic traditional relationship involves a male and female with the man typically being the more dominant partner while the woman is more submissive.

In this context, submissive does not mean voiceless, but the woman will follow the man’s lead and play a more supporting role in the relationship.

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The traditional relationship also has more clearly defined roles for the couple. For example the man could be the sole provider or primary breadwinner. The man would also take care of home repairs, trash, and vehicle maintenance.

For the woman, she would take care of the cooking, the cleaning, and be the primary caretaker of any children. Although this type of relationship may seem antiquated and would not work for some, it works for many, and the relationships do tend to last longer.

Modern Relationships

Modern relationships make their own rules. They break free of the stereotypical roles of relationships and marriage, and define their own coupledom. Just like the traditional relationships, there are many types of modern relationships.

A modern relationship may be an unmarried couple living together. Or a married couple who both work and share chores, taking turns as needed. A common modern couple is two working parents, who make decisions together, and share chores.

The roles are less clearly defined and each are expected to work together to get household chores done and the children taken care of equally.

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In a modern relationship, the woman may be the breadwinner, and the man may play a more supporting role. While modern relationships offer equality to both partners, the undefined roles may result in frustrations and resentment as one half of the couple feels like the other is not pulling their weight.

Studies show that modern relationships do not usually last as long as traditional relationships, but why is that? I don’t think it’s about more morals, or good and bad people. But more perhaps that a person who sees themselves as a traditionalist is less likely to divorce than a more modern minded person is, no matter how miserable they are.

Quantity and quality are not remotely the same thing, and a longer marriage does not mean years of happiness. People stay in relationships for many reason, and love isn’t actually at the top of the list.

Also I would think a person with their own income, who is financially independent, is more likely to call it quits on an unhappy relationship than one who is financially dependent.

What are your thoughts on traditional relationships versus modern relationships? I really want to hear your thoughts and opinions on this topic. Please share!

“We accept the love we think we deserve.” ― Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower

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