How You Should Handle Those Awkward Relationship Moments
Oops, did you just? Heh…Every couple will have awkward situation now and then. What matters is how you handle it. We talked to Judy Kuriansky, Ph.D., author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Dating, for relationship advice on navigating these love dilemmas.
By Carolyn Kylstra
You Accidentally Farted
Laugh it off. Sure, you’d obviously prefer your guy think you’re perfect 100 percent of the time. But that’s just not realistic and that’s okay. So giggle about it… and then move on quickly. He’ll dig that you’re down to earth, and that you feel comfortable around him.
He Doesn’t Introduce You As His Girlfriend
Wait to address it until you get home. Bringing it up at the party, or correcting him in front of others, can make a totally normal situation turn uncomfortable. When you’re alone (and not tipsy) ask him about it. The key is to be non-confrontational-you don’t want him to feel attacked. Make it a conversation about the both of you, which makes him feel as if you’re on a team. Say, “When we’re at a party and I’m introducing you, what should I call you? Can I call you my boyfriend? And what do you feel comfortable calling me?”
He Catches a Nasty Bug
The first time someone gets super sick in a relationship can be a serious test. Guys especially are notorious for ignoring symptoms and trying to tough it out. So if your dude comes down with a nasty fever shower him with kindness, and let him tell you how much he needs or wants. Then do what he asks (and don’t overdo it, if he asks to be left alone. Some people prefer to wallow in sickness by themselves.)
He Says “I Love You”; You’re Not There Yet
Give him a big kiss, and tell him that makes you feel really wonderful. Don’t explain your lack of response unless he directly asks, because then he’ll feel like you’re just making excuses. If he does ask if you feel the same way, tell him that you’re not quite there yet, but you’re getting closer to him every day. Letting him know how much you care will take some of the sting out of the disappointment.
You Purposefully Left Stuff at His Place; He Returns It
Have a conversation about boundaries. Say, “We’ve been together for X amount of time, and if you’re at my place, would you like to leave anything over, to make things easier?” Then tell him that it would make your commute back and forth a little less tricky if you could leave a few items of your own at his place. When you decide on what’s appropriate in advance together, he won’t feel like you’re imposing yourself into his space.
Nana Asks When You’re Getting Hitched (in Front of Him)
Laugh, and then change the subject. Make a joke if you feel comfortable-“What makes you think we’re not already married?” Otherwise, just laugh, say you’re in no rush, smile apologetically at your guy, and pointedly change the subject. It might feel awkward at the time, but a small rough patch in conversation is better than trying to explain why you haven’t discussed it with him yet, or that you like him a lot but aren’t sure he’s the one (or whatever other reason marriage isn’t on the table).
