A committed relationship is one where you are involved exclusively with your partner. You are dedicated to them; and you are loyal and faithful to them physically and emotionally. And they to you! It’s the ultimate relationship level and many of us spend our lives looking for just the right partner and relationship. But why do we so long for this relationship? What is the reality of a committed relationship? What are the pros and cons of being in one?
1. Pros
a. Someone to share your life with. This is the biggest plus of being in a committed relationship. Having a partner to navigate life with. Someone who compliments you so that you are better together. You are strong where they are weak and they are strong where you are weak so your ability to face life is much better than when you are alone.
b. You live longer and the quality of your life is better. Research shows that people in committed relationships live longer than those who are single. And it makes sense since when you are down in the dumps or unwell or going through challenges then you have someone by your side offering support. Unlike a single person who has to bear their load by them-self.
c. Guilt free sex with someone you know and trust. The commitment that you have to one another gives you freedom in your intimacy that you don’t get in a non committed relationship. And this greatly increases the depth and pleasure of your sex life especially if your relationship gives you both the freedom to use your creativity in your interactions.
2. Cons
a. Your own source of aggravation. They can aggravate you to distraction. Living in such close proximity to another human being has its challenges and most of the endearing habits that attracted you to them can become a source of friction. There is no-one on earth who can aggravate you like a partner in a committed relationship and because of the commitment that you have to them, you are obligated to use all your emotional resources and wisdom to live with them amicably and with joy.
b. Contempt in daily doses. As we all know familiarity breeds contempt. It’s so easy to begin taking each other for granted and to be blind to the great traits that attracted you to them. Many begin to increasingly see the great qualities of other people and to see less greatness in their own partners. Getting increasingly disillusioned or unhappy. It is so easy to become unhappy and to feel trapped; and to tear down each other on a daily basis. You may often feel like strangling them.
Committed relationships have both good and bad attributes so that as you get into one or seek after one you need to go in with your eyes open. Knowing that you will enjoy some things but you will need to guard against others to ensure that your relationship is both committed and happy.
