Pride is a natural characteristic we all have. We need to have some sense of pride in order to know who we are and what we are proud of. Our pride is a part of our identity in which it helps to shape our values and show others our views on the world. However, when do we reach a negative aspect of pride? We’ve all heard the phrase “don’t let pride get in the way” and for good reason.
This week, we will concentrate on the negative consequences of pride in romantic relationships. Actually, I should say “romantic”, because having too much pride or using it at the wrong moments can truly make any relationship highly unromantic! It is a true fact that having arguments in relationships is normal and healthy, however, it certainly is not a good idea to keep an argument going merely because one or the other refuses to let their pride down. By not letting your pride down, it will almost always escalate the situation and you’ll find yourself saying things you don’t actually mean. What’s the sense in making a situation worse? Think about it. If you keep an argument going just because you want to “win”, do you really WIN? Situations get escalated, more stress is created, and you would’ve been better off winning by not letting your pride get the better of you.
The following scenario is one that happens in many relationships and is a great example of not letting the negative side of pride get in the way of your relationship’s happiness: the girlfriend gets mad at the boyfriend for whatever reason. The girlfriend starts to yell at the boyfriend. Boyfriend holds his tongue for a short period of time, but eventually can’t take the yelling anymore. He yells back. Tempers rise. No fun.
Many lessons to be learned from that scenario for the ladies and gentlemen! Ladies: guys do not like to be yelled at. It bruises our male ego and our natural reaction is to protect our dignity. Our pride is strong so if you’re going to yell, keep it short, for the benefit of yourself and your man. Ladies, you just need to get your point across and it won’t work by yelling. Likewise, for the gentlemen, hold your tongue! Try to remain calm and do not let your pride get the better of you. You don’t want to say things that you don’t mean. At all times, you must keep in mind that you should respect the woman you’re with and that you retaliating just to “win” the argument leaves you on the uncomfortable sunken couch! Your pride is strong, but you’re not more of a man just because you beat your girl in a war of words. Sometimes, being a man actually means keeping your pride in check, just staying quiet and biting your tongue because you know your relationship is not worth losing.
For both the ladies and gentlemen, the biggest lesson to be learned is that nothing is settled by yelling at each other. Both individuals in a relationship need to keep their prides in check and communicate effectively to each other. There is a major difference between standing your ground rationally and effectively versus standing your ground by backlashing. Learn to speak to each other in a civilized calm manner and you’ll be amazed by how much your relationship can grow. After all, if he/she is the one you want to be with, isn’t your personal pride a good thing to keep in check to help the longivity of your romantic relationship?
Then you’ll win. So will your significant other. And with enough practice with each other, you’ll be one step closer to living a happily ever after.
And in conclusion, for the occasion of Valentine’s Day, below is a reminder of how much you should cherish your loved ones. Remember, showing affection for your loved ones goes a long way so don’t miss a day of it :)
Love is the emotion that we all seek. The reason is because it brings upon an unlimited array of possibilities. What people may deem impossible, two people in love with the support of one another will say otherwise. With love, imaginations and dreams come to life. It’s an experience for a life time and true love comes unmatched. True love comes with the empowerment of the best feelings of the world.
Happiness to have found your other half.
Courage to take on any obstacle.
Amazement at the achievements you can accomplish together.
Peace of mind to know you have an unconditional support system.
You will both continue to discover all the best feelings that life has to offer as you embark on the loving life together. Always remember your love for one another. Cherish your past as that is what brought you together. Embrace the present and enjoy every minute you have with one another. Believe in the future and watch as your love grows into everything you have ever imagined.
