Last week, my boyfriend turned 21, which is arguably the most important birthday (if you’re American). Since I won’t turn 21 until June, I knew that the gap would cause some bumps in our relationship, especially since I’m not a big drinker in the first place. The night of his 21st birthday had me fueled with anxiety. My mind raced through all of the possible outcomes. Would he stop wanting to spend time with me? Would he like going to bars? Would he start going out every night? If you are in a similar situation, I have compiled a few tips exactly for this purpose.
1. Keep in Contact Throughout the Night
Whenever my boyfriend goes out, he keeps me updated about where he’s at, when he thinks he’ll be home, etc. Receiving these texts allows me to know that he’s okay and decreases my worry. Sometimes he’ll snapchat me, too, and it’s always nice just to see his face. If you’re the worrying type, let your partner know that you would be much more comfortable knowing they weren’t lying in a ditch somewhere.
2. Drink at Home
Your S.O. may be able to go out to the bars whenever they want, but they can’t bring you with them. However, they can also buy alcohol now, which means you can spend some quality time together while getting drunk in the privacy of your own home. Even if you don’t drink, spending any one-on-one time with your boo is crucial. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you both have fun and enjoy each other’s company.
3. Don’t Be Jealous
It’s easy to feel left out if your S.O. is suddenly going out without you all the time. You may feel like they don’t like spending time with you or that you’ve become boring. You may even be jealous that they’re having fun without you. It is so important that you don’t let these feelings seep into your relationship. If you’re having serious doubts, talk to your partner about it. That’s always better than sitting at home seething over something nonexistent.
A birthday should not come between you and your partner. If you follow these tips and things are still rocky between you two, then perhaps something more is troubling one or both of you. No matter what your situation, talking is always better than keeping your feelings from each other.