What If Your Partner Doesn’t Like Your Friends?

When it comes to relationships, conflict is inevitable. But what if this conflict involves your best friends? How can we find the middle ground? And what if your partner doesn't like the people you follow on social media? Are these valid reasons for breakup? Aaron and I had another fiery discussion as we answer a question from our AWJP fam, Ella!

What to do?

**1) Open Communication.**

Start by having an open and honest conversation with your partner. Encourage them to express their concerns and listen attentively to their perspective. Likewise, share your thoughts and feelings about the importance of your friends to you. Seek to understand each other's viewpoints without becoming defensive.

**2) Reflect on Compatibility.**

Consider whether this difference in opinion about your friends reflects a broader compatibility issue in your relationship. Assess if there are fundamental values or personality traits that are not aligning. While it's natural to have some differences, it's important to evaluate if this discrepancy is indicative of larger challenges.

**3) Find Common Ground.**

Explore areas of common interest or shared activities that involve both your partner and your friends. Look for opportunities to foster positive interactions and create shared experiences that can help build understanding and rapport.

**4) Respect Boundaries.**

Respect your partner's feelings while also asserting the importance of maintaining your friendships. Find a balance that acknowledges their concerns while asserting your need for social connections outside of the relationship. Seek compromise and establish boundaries that allow both of you to feel comfortable and respected.

**5) Maintain Independence.**

It's important for both partners to have some degree of independence and autonomy, including maintaining friendships outside of the relationship. It's healthy to have separate social circles and interests. Discuss the importance of this independence and reassure your partner that your friends do not pose a threat to your relationship.

Healthy relationships require mutual respect, understanding, and compromise. It's essential to find a balance between supporting your partner's concerns and maintaining important connections with friends. Ultimately, both partners should be willing to make efforts to find common ground and work towards a resolution that respects each other's feelings and needs.