Commitment in Relationships: How Defining Expectations Can Strengthen Your Bond
Defining expectations together creates clarity, connection, and a stronger foundation for love
Commitment in relationships comes in many forms—what kind, how long, and when to define it. Most people crave security in their relationships, but let’s be honest—our communication skills aren’t always strong enough to openly discuss what we truly want.
The first step? Decide what you want—and what you don’t. (That part is just as important!) Before expecting commitment from someone else, ask yourself: How much of a commitment are YOU willing to make? It’s unfair to expect someone to step up more than you’re willing to.
The Rise of Relationship Agreements
Recently, a friend told me that she and her new boyfriend took an unconventional approach—they drafted a relationship contract just weeks into dating. They laid out their expectations, desires, and non-negotiables upfront, eliminating guesswork and uncertainty.
They didn’t just stop there. They put a six-month term on their agreement, committing to nurture their relationship for that time before reassessing. When six months passed, they revisited their contract to evaluate their progress and determine if they wanted to continue.
Why This Works
Relationship agreements aren’t about stripping away romance—they’re about fostering clear communication and mutual respect. When both partners understand expectations from the start, there’s less room for misunderstandings, resentment, and unmet needs.
This approach is becoming increasingly popular, even among married couples and long-term partners. In fact, some relationship coaches recommend formal agreements as a proactive tool to build a healthier, stronger foundation.
Creating Your Own Relationship Agreement
Interested in trying this? Here’s how to get started:
- Identify your needs and boundaries. What are your relationship must-haves? What’s non-negotiable for you?
- Have an open conversation. Share your expectations with your partner and encourage them to do the same.
- Set a commitment period. Whether it’s six months or a year, agree on a timeframe to actively work on your relationship.
- Revisit and revise. At the end of the term, reflect on how things went and adjust as needed.
This isn’t about forcing rules but about creating a shared understanding of what you both want.
Final Thoughts
While a relationship agreement may not be for everyone, it can be a powerful tool for strengthening trust, communication, and commitment. If you and your partner are looking for a structured way to define your relationship, why not give it a shot?
Expanding Your Perspective: Are You Blocking Love?
Doncha just love how persistent the Universe is in getting its point across? Here I was thinking the message was about what form a relationship should take, when I am gobsmacked with the epiphany that the form I should be considering is the FORM I’ve been expecting for my Beloved to take.
This first came up two weeks ago when my coach pointed it out, but today, during a client session, the same realization resurfaced. And guess what? It was MY stuff too!
We get so hung up on how Mr./Ms. Right should look—five foot two, eyes of blue, or tall, dark, and handsome—that we unintentionally box Spirit in. The Universe always says yes, but what if Source knows exactly who your Beloved is and wants to bring them into your life, yet you’ve set up so many restrictions that it simply can’t deliver?
A Thought to Reflect On
Your weekend food for thought: Am I blocking my Beloved from coming into my life because I am being too restrictive in my request to the Universe?
If your answer is yes, shift your approach. Instead of fixating on specific traits, try asking for the perfect Beloved or Twin Flame. Then, give thanks that they are being delivered to you now.
The Evolution of Relationships: Letting Go of Outdated Structures
Everything is changing. The way relationships look is shifting along with it. For thousands of years, we’ve built and upheld the institution of marriage for various reasons—protection, possession, tradition—you name it.
But in today’s world, things are different. Many people are re-examining old institutions and value systems with fresh perspectives. As gender roles evolve and the balance between masculine and feminine energies stabilizes, the notion of a woman as the ‘weaker sex’ needing a husband for protection is becoming obsolete. She’s fully capable of taking care of herself.
Additionally, relationships between same-sex partners are not just accepted but celebrated as natural and valid forms of love.
Breaking Free from Old Beliefs
It’s time for all of us to examine our own programming around relationships. What do we truly resonate with? What belief systems have become outdated?
Judgment of any kind doesn’t align with higher consciousness. What feels right for one person may not feel right for another—and that’s okay. The key is to honor and respect each person’s path without trying to dictate their choices.
A New Paradigm
As we step into this new era, the only thing that matters is that our relationships align with our personal truths. Whether traditional, unconventional, monogamous, polyamorous, or something entirely unique, the best relationship model is the one that works for you.