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Reflecting on Relationships

Print Music Editor Bridie Adams discusses the unique opportunity to evaluate our relationships as they are challenged during lockdown.
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Reflecting on Relationships

Print Music Editor Bridie Adams discusses the unique opportunity to evaluate our relationships as they are challenged during lockdown.

In a time where we can’t properly socialize with people outside our households, it’s natural to reflect on relationships and friendships that are being maintained mostly virtually. Relationships and friendships can be fragile and difficult to keep healthy and happy in lockdown. In times like these, it can be helpful to think about how much people are bringing to your life, and whether you enjoy having them close to you. 

Long-term relationships: 

If you’re isolating with your significant other, it can be valuable to take some time to reflect on the health of the relationship both in and out of lockdown. I’ve enjoyed isolating with my fiancé, but it’s been very unusual for us to spend so much time together in one go since we’re used to being apart while I’m at university.  

Distance requires you to be vulnerable and willing to communicate effectively while being apart

For those in long-term relationships who are having to spend lockdown apart, things can feel quite strained. Distance can require more trust and an ability to let go of control. It requires you to be vulnerable and willing to communicate with your partner effectively while being apart. It’s always best to follow your heart and your instinct.  

New romances and the ‘talking stage’: 

This lockdown period can be tricky for those entering potential new relationships or talking to love interests on dating apps or social media. How can you fully reflect on whether you want to be in a relationship with someone if you can’t meet with them properly or go on dates? FaceTime dates can only get you so far when it comes to judging whether you can connect on a romantic level, but at least talking to someone new can provide some entertainment and company if you’re single and in lockdown. 

Friendships: 

I’ve been talking to my closest friends on FaceTime quite regularly, and with the lockdown restrictions slightly eased, have met one of my friends two metres apart in my local park. Keeping in contact with those who mean a lot to me has been so valuable for my mental health and for maintaining these friendships, as well as for staying entertained.

In times like these, it can be helpful to think about how much people are bringing to your life

It’s nice to know that amazing friends are only on the other end of a phone if I need to talk about something that’s bothering me – I’m very lucky to be in a position where I have such supportive people to talk to, a position that I hope many people can also be in. Lockdown is a time when we all appreciate our friends more – we miss nights out, meeting up for coffee, movie nights and so much more. I for one can’t wait to see my friends again properly. 

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