Sports can be a fun thing for a couple to enjoy together, or it can be a cause of tension. If two people in a relationship enjoy sports, it gives them one more opportunity to bond. If not, it can cause serious arguments that may lead to accusations that the sports fan is spending too much time away from the relationship.
If you are dating a sports fan, here are some tips for making sure it doesn't cause tension in your relationship.
Let Your Sports Fan Have Their Time in the Beginning of the Relationship
Sports fans can easily spend an entire day watching their favorite games. Sometimes, in the case of play offs or special events, they might even spend several consecutive nights in a row glued to the TV. When your relationship is new, it doesn't pay to argue about the amount of time your partner is spending away from you.
Insisting that he or she give up his or her sports time in favor of hanging out with you will only cause tension.
New relationships are tender and can easily derail if one person is inflexible. Instead of making it an issue, take that time for yourself. Focus on your own needs and friendships and let your relationship progress slowly.
Discuss a Compromise When Your Relationship is Established
When you've dated a while and your relationship is on more solid ground, you can bring up a possible compromise. Some possible options are:
- Asking your partner to cut back on the amount of games he watches. If he watches games for a solid day, for example, ask if he can cut one of those games out. If he watches games four days a week, ask if he can drop that to three.
- When asking your partner to compromise, don't forget to offer up something you are willing to give up as well. If you ask your partner to drop one game a week, for example, offer to cut him some slack on the housework or to stop nagging about his diet.
- If you know nothing about the sport, you can always learn. This might create a new activity you can share together. However, if your heart isn't it, don't fake it. Only find out more if you're truly interested in learning.
- Use the time your partner spends on games to do something for yourself. There's no reason you need to sit and "wait" for your partner. If you know he's taking the entire day to watch games, get out and enjoy the day with your friends as well.
Remember that the point of compromise is not to get your partner to give up things, but to come to an understanding you both can live with. There is no right or wrong way to do this, so don't let outside influences from society or your friends dictate what you decide. If you and your partner are happy with the terms, then your compromise is successful.
Cherie Burbach - Cherie Burbach writes about dating, relationships, health, sports, and lifestyle. She's the author of eleven books and ebooks.
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