No new generation runs on the same ideals as the previous one. Even though there is no rule book for relationships and love, there are certain things which are better avoided or done differently for a healthy, happy and loving relationship.
The millennial generation will understand this, because their relationships are both open and complex at the same time. They demand loyalty and respect while being on dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. The road gets slipperier from here, and hence there are new rules to maneuver this phase.
Here are the 10 “Commandments” of love that are relatable to all millennial couples out there:
1. All that is on social media is not the entire truth
People express themselves differently on social media. Some like to flood theirs with their boo and their relationship updates, some like to keep it private. Your partner’s social media is not a register of your relationship. How they are with you is more important, unless they are super sneaky about their social media habits and have random people hitting them up in their DMs or commenting mushy things on their pictures.
2. Love is nothing, but loyalty still counts
It is hard to define love in the 21st century, but that doesn’t mean you go around playing the Casanova, heartbreaker! Stay loyal and have good communication skills!
3. Casual scrolling on dating apps is off bounds
What do you mean you were just scrolling! You are practically checking other fish in the pond, when you are yourself off the market! It is better to stay in limits that test waters in a millennial relationship, because everyone is replaceable.
4. A partner who is prompt on text is helping the other overcome insecurities
It is an insecurity of almost half of the millennial generation. They wish for a more present partner, someone who takes interest! So just being available on the phone, except when you are genuinely busy, will give them the security they have been looking for!
5. If you know space, you know healthy relationships
It is a lot like doing things that you hate for the sake of your partner. You might hate the concept of space or the idea of boundaries in a relationship. But you give it, to get it and this helps build a healthy relationship with two individuals who do not lose each other in the said relationship.
6. Gratitude expressed often will ensure a strong sense of respect
You just need to show that the other person is loved and wanted by being grateful for their presence. Even if you have to appreciate their shitty advice– do that! That will make them feel heard and a part of your life. They will respect you for respecting them.
7. Saying no when needed will set the correct tone for any future arrangement
“No, I do not want to have sex.”
“No, I do not wish to meet your mother over lunch (because she is mean to me).”
“No, I do not want to sneak out of my house at 1 in the night.”
These no’s go a long way, and you will learn as your relationship progresses. They will not hold unrealistic expectations from you, nor will they love you for what you are not!
8. Having a strong friend circle will nourish the said relationship
It is about holding on to your own life and individuality. If both of you have something to fall back on, like friends and family, apart from each other, you will always have the spark alive in the relationship. Don’t depend on your partner so much that they feel exhausted.
9. Trust and love wasn’t built in a day! Two way road, honey
You know the drill–trust is not built in a day but it is definitely broken in a single second. So give the relationship time and don’t jump to conclusions until you have reason in hand.
10. Those who understand will do so in the first go
If they didn’t understand something in the first go, they aren’t wired that way. Give them a second chance, and if that fails too–that is your cue to bounce!
Image credits: Instagram, Tara Sutaria & Viral Bhayani
