How do you balance your personal freedom and independence within a relationship? What should you expect or accept from your partner?

I think this is going to be an individual case by case thing as everyone is different. But I would also say this type of question might be better for couples who have been together for a long time and not a bunch of single people...lol

Some folks love being told what to do. My brother is one. If you follow "orders" you don't feel responsible for the consequences.

Some folks won't take advice if their hair was on fire and you offer them a glass of water.

Couples have to balance out the scales so that each gets what they need, and decide if they're happy with it.

Communication is the key. A lack of it causes many divorces.

this kinda makes sense but I get where the OP is coming from.. ounce of prevention and all lol


plus THIS:

The reason behind the question is about considering what is involved in getting into a relationship of some sort. Many ladies seem to be looking for that relationship commitment. What does that mean to you in relation to freedom and independence?

For some "commitment" means two things, marriage and fidelity. To others it's more like "no B.S..

to me?

it doesn't really mean anything personally, cuz I'm not looking for one.. however, that said.. IF I WERE?

I'd hope that whoever I was with, would NOT be sleeping around OR dating others (commitment part) as I wud not be doing either myself.. as to freedom & independence? I've been single for 17+ years so I would continue to do as I like AND have my ME time.. I'd appreciate being respected & accepted for WHO I am, as I wud expect he wud want the same.. but like Mo said.. communication is KEY!! figure it out together.. discuss FIRST what your likes/dislikes & preferences are.. cards on the table.. this way.. no one steps on the others toes as far as their personal choices are concerned and everything is out in the open so no one can cry "fowl" when things go as stated..

oh and.. the commitment part to me would be simply giving us (he & I) the opportunity to get to know each other to see if there was enough between the 2 of us to commit further..

marriage??

fidelity?? YES SIR! I expect to get what I give.. and I don't wanna "get" any STD's.. just sayin