Previously, I used to believe that compromising was the solution to every problem in a relationship. However, I came to the realization that I don't need to sacrifice my desires for my partner's. As a result, I now approach my relationship without the intention of making compromises, and this has significantly improved our dynamic.

1. My individuality is important to me

In the past, I used to lose myself in relationships, but now that I'm breaking that pattern, I realize the crucial role of maintaining my independence. I have no intention of sacrificing it again anytime soon. Therefore, I approach my relationship with a no-compromise mentality, which serves as a safeguard to celebrate my autonomy.

2. I have more respect for my partner when I see him functioning as his own person

One of the most attractive qualities of my boyfriend is his independent nature. It brings me immense pleasure to witness him indulging in activities that bring him happiness, and I hold his autonomy in high regard. If I witness him making compromises for my sake, I notice a decline in his spark of independence, which is something I'd like to avoid. A man who has a clear understanding of his desires and possesses the self-respect to pursue them is undoubtedly alluring.

3. We're different people and we live different lives

The merging of my life with my boyfriend's is one of the most challenging aspects of relationships. However, it doesn't have to be that way. We are two unique individuals with distinct lives that existed before we met each other. Falling in love doesn't require giving up our individuality. I deeply love my boyfriend for who he is, not who I want him to be.

4. I don't want to end up resenting him

I'm aware that compromise can result in resentment for either of us. Instead, I believe in finding solutions that fulfill both our needs, even if they appear conflicting initially. I don't believe in compromising, and I'm confident that there's always a way around it. For instance, if my boyfriend wants to go on a Caribbean cruise while I prefer backpacking in Asia, we can find a way that doesn't require compromising.

5. I never want to look back and regret not doing something

I have an extensive list of experiences that I wish to have in my life, knowing that I won't be able to try them all. I don't want to avoid them just to maintain stability in my relationship. I believe that I can have a stable, healthy, and loving relationship without compromising on my desire for excitement and adventure. In other words, I can have my cake and eat it too.

6. Our independence is what keeps our relationship alive

My boyfriend's ability to book a flight to India, become a magician, or take up firebreathing at any moment adds a unique thrill to our relationship. This thrill comes from genuinely accepting and celebrating his right to pursue what brings him joy. I'm equally free to do the same, which gives me peace of mind. The spark of a new relationship, where one never knows what the other person might do, is something I love. A no-compromise approach to our relationship keeps that flame alive.

7. I've wasted way too much time losing myself in relationships

If you're anything like me, you understand what I mean. As a strong, independent woman, falling in love can make us lose our will, and we end up doing "whatever you feel like, honey." However, I'm not interested in repeating that pattern because I know the fulfillment that comes from following my impulses and doing what makes me happy, rather than what's convenient for my boyfriend.

8. I want us both to be happy

Occasionally, my partner and I desire the same thing and can enjoy it together. But when we want different things, why shouldn't we have the opportunity to experience those things, even if it means doing them separately? I want my partner and myself to enjoy all the things we desire without any inhibition.

9. We have the opportunity to learn things separately

This approach enriches us both as individuals and as a couple, and it's one of my favorite things about it. When we have different experiences, we learn new things that we can bring back into our relationship. I enjoy sharing things with my partner after spending time apart, and hearing his tales of adventure too! After experiencing living and loving without unnecessary compromises, I would never go back to that approach.