Bonding With Your Boyfriend

There is nothing more exciting than developing a crush on someone only to realize that the feeling is mutual. When the object of your affection becomes your boyfriend, euphoria can take over as you float into relationship territory. Once there, however, it is normal for you to want to continue building upon your relationship. Finding ways to bond with your boyfriend can take a little work, but it is worth it in order to continue growing as a couple.

In the early stages of a relationship, it is easy to enjoy your time together. You don’t need to be doing much in order to feel those butterflies while in your boyfriend’s presence. Over time though, you may find that you have to put a bit more thought into the activities you and your boyfriend engage in. It won’t always be enough to just sit at the house watching movies. Find activities you both enjoy, such as going to baseball games or checking out local art exhibits. Once you discover things you have in common, you can plan fun adventures that will help you two feel even more connected as a couple.

At the center of a healthy relationship is an ability to settle disagreements openly and honestly. It may seem in the beginning as though nothing could ever come between you and your boyfriend. But all relationships have their ups and downs. The first time the two of you argue it might feel like your world is falling apart. Finding a way to communicate openly through the argument and to see your boyfriend’s side of things can actually help you two grow stronger as a couple. All couples have disagreements from time to time, but it is how you both work through those disagreements that truly counts. Show your boyfriend how much you care about him by keeping a cool head and trying to hear him out, even when it is clear the two of you aren’t exactly seeing eye to eye.

Discovering a new favorite spot together can be great for bonding. If both of you enjoy hiking, make a point to check out a few new local hiking trails as a pair. When you find a spot that you each love, go back often to share memories as you explore the area. If you both have an appreciation for dining out, make a game of discovering new restaurants together. You can pretend to be food critics and talk about what you do and do not like about each new locale -- bonding as you each build memories around these new experiences you are creating together.

Another major component to a serious relationship is respect. This means having respect for your boyfriend’s privacy, his time and the other people in his life. Treat your boyfriend with respect by being open and honest with him, while also allowing him time and space to do his own thing occasionally. Don’t expect him to constantly check in with you or make demands of him that are extensive or unfair. Remember that he should be extending the same respect to you. And with this mutual respect, you should be able to grow as a couple and build upon your trust for each other.