Monte

I learned a lot from my previous relationship—both about myself and the things that are important to me—things that I had lost touch of somewhere along the way.

For example, I’ve learned that I shouldn’t try to change myself to appease my partner. A relationship is not about bending to each other’s wills. The next time around, I’ll be more sensitive to me and my partner’s differences and enjoy the ways in which we are the same.

Next time around, I promise myself that I will never downplay or belittle the needs that are most important to me, like affection and intimacy. And at the same time, I will recognize and respect my partner’s own needs.

I’ll be more honest with myself and communicate to my partner my true feelings and what I want and expect from the relationship.

I’ll be more open to trying new things.

Next time around, I’ll love my partner the way that he is and for all of the right reasons, and not try to shape him into the person I wish he was.