Life, as they say, is a journey. And for Gregory and me, that journey has involved a healthy dose of ambition, negotiation, and, yes, MANY power struggles.
As a lawyer and an architect ( well, he is not really an architect, but thats close enough to what he does) – both deeply committed to our careers – we've learned that building a fulfilling relationship requires more than just love; it demands intentionality, understanding, and a willingness to adapt.
You see, we're both Leos at heart – strong-willed individuals accustomed to taking the lead. This manifests as a subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) dance for control. Gregory, perhaps influenced by societal expectations, feels a sense of responsibility to be the "strong" one, the decision-maker. And I, well, I've never been one to shy away from expressing my opinions or taking initiative. I chose the name of this blog wisely, lol.
What we discovered, though, is that our relationship thrives when we embrace a dynamic where I often take the helm. It meant Gregory had to consciously step back from the "leader" role he'd always envisioned for himself, and trust my judgment and vision.
Of course, navigating this dynamic hasn't always been easy. There have been moments of insecurity, bruised egos, and the occasional heated discussion. But what's been crucial is our commitment to open, honest communication. We make time to check in with each other regularly, not just about the logistics of our busy lives, but about our emotional well-being, our career goals, and our individual needs.
We also prioritize supporting each other in tangible ways. A win for him is a win for me, and vice versa. We celebrate each other's successes, offer a listening ear during challenging times, and make a conscious effort to create space for relaxation and connection.
So, what's the secret to making a relationship work? There isn't one, really. But for us, it's been about letting go of preconceived notions, embracing our individual strengths, and building a partnership based on trust, respect, and unwavering support.