I (28M) never been in a relationship before and feeling like I lack certain “partner skills”, Partner (27F) — need advice
I’ve been talking to a girl for around 2 months now. We talk almost daily, have met a few times, and both genuinely like each other. We’ve also discussed serious topics like marriage, family responsibilities, future plans, etc.
Recently, when things started becoming more real, she said she needs a little more time to think about us moving forward, which I completely understand. I do feel I slightly rushed things during our recent meet because of my feelings.
The main thing is I’ve never been in a relationship before, while she has been in past relationships. Recently I asked her what she expects from me, and she mentioned that her exes used to be more expressive emotionally, compliment her often, and naturally do small things that made her feel appreciated.
I’m naturally introverted and not very expressive emotionally, even though I genuinely care deeply. When I told her I’d try improving in those aspects, she said:
“It’s okay, this is who you are, don’t push yourself too much.”
But I still feel I should improve certain things as a partner and learn how to express myself better naturally instead of staying emotionally reserved all the time.
Another thing is that we’re already around 700 km apart, and in a few days I’ll be moving abroad for work, so this will become a very long-distance situation. Because of that, I feel communication and emotional expression will matter even more, and honestly I’m scared I might fall short there due to my lack of relationship experience.
So I wanted advice:
- How do you become more emotionally expressive naturally?
- What are some small things that actually matter in a relationship, especially long distance?
- How do you improve as a partner without pretending to be someone else?
Would appreciate genuine advice from people who’ve experienced something similar.