Your own life alongside a relationship

Understanding the topic

You can consider what you want time for: friends, study, rest or other interests. This article does not prescribe a correct balance of shared and separate time.

What the research says

Harris and Orth’s meta-analysis found small reciprocal longitudinal associations between self-esteem and social relationships. It covered more than romantic relationships.

Source for this section: Michelle A. Harris, Ulrich Orth

Limits of these findings

Statistical prediction does not establish cause. These findings set no minimum self-esteem for entering a relationship and do not require you to “fix yourself” first.

An optional starting point

You could choose one activity you want to keep and find time for it. This is an organisational suggestion, not treatment for low self-esteem. If threats or control over your contacts are involved, see the article about violence and support.