Even a match-made in heaven is based off of two different people coming together. Two’s Company took to the streets of Dublin asking couples What different hobbies cause rifts? and How they keep it together?
*names have been changed for privacy.
Fake It ‘Til You Make It
Catríona*:
“My boyfriend loves GAA. I grew up in a rugby-mad household and knew very little about the Irish sporting alternatives. Every weekend I rose at all hours to watch Himself’s Gaelic football match and each weekend I stood, usually in the rain, contemplating how I got to this wet, weird place in my life. Eventually I confessed to him that I didn’t have a clue about his beloved sport and was struggling to appreciate my Saturday shift on the sideline. My boyfriend reacted brilliantly. He took the time to explain the rules of the game to me and what his position was, as well as his clubs rivalries and position in the league. He also showed me YouTube clips of his favourite county players and moments during matches. Seeing how animated he became discussing the sport made me appreciate and admire his genuine love for the game. Standing in the rain is still one of the least fun parts of our relationship but now rather than feeling obliged to show up I have my own reasons for being there.”
Fair Trade
Adam*:
“I love my wife but I really struggle to get enthusiastic about some of her interests, in particular the theatre; I find it overpriced and underwhelming. My wife would say likewise about my passion for collecting punk rock memorabilia. When we were saving for our house we came up with an IOU system and its a tradition we’ve kept ever since. One month we spend on something she loves, like the theatre and the next month I can indulge in my own pursuits without feeling guilty or like I am neglecting her needs in the relationship. This agreement means I actually enjoy the shows we see together; what goes around to come back around!”
Me, Myself and I
James*:
“My girlfriend and I are like chalk and cheese. I am quite introverted. If there is a big party I will be the guy in the corner wondering when is too early to sneak out. My girlfriend on the other hand would locate her comfort zone smack bang in the centre of attention. When we got together many people wondered how it would work. But the answer is easily. I let her be exactly who she is, and she offers me the same respect, I have never expected her to take on my personal hobbies just because we are in a relationship together and equally she has never demanded I evolve into a social butterfly. I listen to her stories of nights out, and she listens to whatever book or TV series I am currently engrossed in. We share many interests like cooking and hiking and commonalities like these are only intensified by our independent interests, it keeps things fresh and exciting.”
How do you manage your partners pursuits? Does it cause problems or have you found a happy compromise?? Tweet us @twoscompanyie