Have you ever moved in with a romantic partner? Living with anyone can make or break any relationship. Being in close proximity to a person can be a revealing experience. You may find out things you love about them that you wouldn’t otherwise have known, and you may also find out things you absolutely hate about them. It is an experience that could bring you together or ultimately ruin the relationship.
We asked women about their experiences living with their partners and the things they wished they knew before moving in with them. Their responses, though mostly good, show that living with a romantic partner is a learning experience whether good, bad or half and half.
Amari, 23
I lived with my first partner for 6 months, and my second partner and I lived together for nearly a year. It ended when I got posted to another state for NYSC. I was enthusiastic in both cases, and the experiences were neither wholly good nor bad. I wish I knew beforehand that I was moving in with someone who was raised completely differently from how I was. I wish I knew that sometimes I would need some me time. I also wish I approached the situation with a less fairytale mindset.
Atinuke, 23
I’ve lived with my partner for more than a year and we still live together. It’s going great, they’re very understanding and easygoing so it’s a breeze. We’ve never had an argument. I was wary at first as it was my first time living with a partner but it turned out so great. It’s been a good experience so far, no notes.
AJ, 24
We’ve lived together for two years and it’s going well so far. It’s helping me understand how two people from different backgrounds with different upbringings can coexist without butting heads. I was a bit sceptical at first but now I’m loving every moment of it. The only thing I wish I knew before moving in with my boyfriend was how much he loves FIFA.
Mayowa, 22
I lived with an ex-boyfriend for two weeks then we broke up because I lost feelings for him. I was so gassed in the beginning, it was perfect at first. Then I found out he was gluttonous, and it irked me.
Isi, 26
My partner and I have lived together for 9 months and counting. It ended and then we continued again. I wasn’t open to it at first, but along the line, I got used to his company and now I look forward to it. The experienced hasn’t been wholly good or bad and I wish I’d known how messy he was before we moved in together.
Moving in with a partner could be the make-or-break step in a relationship. Before venturing in, think about it carefully. Consider how you feel about them, their desirable and undesirable traits and your level of compatibility.
