to the YourTango newsletter!

Continue to Site »»

ProConnect

Help! He's A Republican & I'm A Democrat

By . Posted on .

Help! He's A Republican & I'm A Democrat [EXPERT]
Would you date your political opposite?
4 tips to make your relationship work despite political differences.

2. Don't try to change your partner's mind. If you get into a relationship with the intention to sway your partner's politics to your party or your viewpoint on an issue, you're probably going to get frustrated and maybe resentful. It's never a good idea to try to make your partner be who you think he or she should be. This is always a recipe for disaster!

3. Appreciate the differences in your partner's position. If you and your partner are into political debates, do have them. If you don't like to argue over the issues, agree not to debate. In either case, cultivate appreciation for your partner's beliefs. 

More from YourTango: Is There a Cure for His Wandering Eye?

Really listen to why your partner is a progressive or a conservative. Set aside your preconceived notions and learn a little bit about his or her unique point of view. Remember, just because you respectfully listen to your partner talk about why he or she supports a particular candidate or is for or against a certain issue, this does NOT mean you have to abandon what you believe.

4. Appreciate how your different beliefs benefit your relationship. It might surprise you to discover that the vast political differences between you and your partner actually have some positive effects on your relationship. Some people really get worked up and excited talking politics — especially if there's a debate raging. This could infuse more passion (in a good way) into your relationship. If you can keep the heated discussions fair and respectful, there may be a carry-over of more heat in your lovemaking.

For instance, look at the long-term celebrity couple James Carville and Mary Matalin. Matalin was campaign director for Republican George HW Bush's Presidential campaign while Carville was lead strategist in Bill Clinton's Presidential campaigns. Today, neither has changed parties, they continue to spar politically and yet their marriage has survived.

More from YourTango: 5 Insights Soulmates Need to Know

Perhaps what's most important to remember if you're dating your political opposite is to stay true to yourself. In order to have a happy and successful love relationship or marriage, you do not have to agree on everything. What's essential is for you and your partner to foster genuine respect, appreciation and love for one another.

Want to know how to create a close, connected and passionate love relationship or marriage?  Visit www.relationshipgold.com to receive our free ebook: Passionate Heart~Lasting Love.

Article contributed by
Advanced Member

Susie And Otto Collins

Author

Susie and Otto Collins are relationship coaches and authors who help couples communicate, connect and create the passionate relationships they desire.

Visit http://www.relationshipgold.com to get their free ebook: Passionate Spark- Lasting Love as well as access to free articles and resources to help you improve your love relationship or marriage.

Location: Columbus, OH
Credentials: Other
Specialties: Communication Problems, Couples/Marital Issues
Other Articles/News by Susie and Otto Collins:

Is There a Cure for His Wandering Eye?

By

Are you sick and tired of being out with your guy and having to watch him watch other women the whole time? You’ve tried to ignore it. You’ve glared at him, pursed your lips and sighed dramatically. You’ve even tried talking to him about this disrespectful habit of his.... And he still does it! His gaze lingers on the backside of ... Read more

5 Insights Soulmates Need to Know

By

You hear people talk about meeting their soulmate and scoff or roll your eyes...until it happens to you. When you least expect it, you bump into someone and everything feels so familiar. The more time you spend together and the more you get to know the person, the more it feels like you two are just supposed to be a couple. It’s like you and your love ... Read more

What To Say To Your Cheating Spouse

By

So here you are. It’s a place you never ever thought you’d be. You used to believe that infidelity was something that only happened in other people’s relationships, not yours. That was until your spouse started acting weird and you began to notice things, little clues that became increasingly worrisome. When you finally discovered that ... Read more

See More

Recent Expert Posts
Yes No Maybe

Let's ReInvent the Status Quo -- Part II

Are you ready to complete the 7 1/2 Step Process? Yes, No or Maybe? Can you do it?

Walk

How to Stretch Time

Stretching time is not difficult if you have the prerequisites: self-awareness, a sense of purpose,

Gaggle

An Invitation

Ever wondered how to find a great yoga teacher or how to grow as a teacher?

Ask The Experts

Have a dating or relationship question?
Visit Ask YourTango and let our experts and community answer.

Resources
How to find the right pro for you
10 Reasons Mental Health Pros Should Join YourTango Experts

10 Reasons Mental Health Pros Should Join YourTango Experts

YourTango Experts can help your business go from good to great.

10 Steps To Improve Your Coaching Business

Take your coaching business from mediocre to great in no time…

Frequently Asked Questions About YourTango Experts

Thinking of joining? Here's all the facts you need to know to make the most of your membership.

Getting Your Guy To Join You In A Therapy Or Coaching Session

So how can your get your strong, self-reliant, superman to talk to an Expert with you?

Therapist/Counselors: Who We Are & What We Do

What exactly does a therapist/counselor do and can they really help?

See more resources>
HOT STUFF!
FROM OUR PARTNERS