Dating an empath must pretty much be difficult. Often described as overly sensitive, empaths possess the rare gift of an ability to intuitively feel and comprehend what the next person is going through from within their frame of reference. Owing to their acute sensitivity, they are more vulnerable to getting hurt especially in relationships.
Empaths naturally react to the slightest provocations. It may be the sight of an animal in distress or the sound of a child crying in anguish or pain. The immediate surrounding thus plays a key role in determining whether they will be happy and energized or sad.
Most people are afraid of dating an empath because of their ability to see through people and tell what is really going on. They fear their partner might be over-protective or over-reactive in sensitive situations. And these fears are actually true.
How to Know If You Are Dating an Empath
You may be unconsciously dating an empath. Below are common traits that we associate with empaths:
- Empaths are highly sensitive people. They are overly keen about themselves and their immediate environment. Naturally, they can observe and notice things, which an ordinary person wouldn’t.
- They possess a lot of empathy. Whatever the next person is feeling, good or bad, empaths will feel to the same scale. This is both exhausting and flourishing for them. It is exhausting if around negative energy and flourishing if surrounded by peace and love.
- They are introverted. Crowds overwhelm Empaths. That is why they prefer one-to-one contact or small groups. They connect better with individuals than groups.
- Empaths are very intuitive. It is practically impossible to lie to an empath. They are led by their intuition, which is right most of the time. Consequently, they can separate positive vibes from negative energy.
- They love spending time alone. Being around people leaves them drained, and therefore, they need to constantly stay away to re-energize. This may be partly why they don’t last in intimate relationships. They have a big heart and worry more about others than themselves, which wears them out.
How to Interact with Empaths
If you are dating an empath, there are a few adjustments you have to make. This is what relationships are about anyway, right? Initially, these changes might be tough and inconvenient, but once you adapt everything should work just fine. With time, you will realize that empaths are adorable people capable of loving and being loved just like any other person.
Give them alone time
When they stay alone from you, it is not because they don’t want you around, but rather to decompress and recharge. It is their means of self-preservation. Create a routine that encompasses breaks within the day.
Establish some physical space
This may be your bathroom, living room, or even the study area. It may seem a bit abnormal, but empaths have certain spaces that can’t be evaded at all. This requires you to compromise, but it’s a step closer towards building a stronger relationship.
Make requests, not demands
Dating an empath may be demanding. If there is something that you’d love your partner to change about themselves, there is a proper way of asking without coming out as if you are imposing. Approach them when they are decompressed and at peace and then tell them in a sensitive manner.
Do not yell at him or her. You might have arguments occasionally but you should never yell at an empath. They are very sensitive about little things and yelling may make them snap.
Take it slow
Do not rush things. It may take a little longer making adjustments but do not rush yourself or your partner. Give each other time to adapt to each other. Similarly, address a single issue at a time to avoid overwhelming them with stress. Empaths are drained drastically by sad and unpleasant situations because of their overly sensitive nature.
They are not broken – stop “fixing”
We ruin most relationships because of couples trying to ‘fix’ the other. There are those things you may not like about your partner. Try compromising and if you can’t then talk it up with him or her in a settled manner. Do not try to mold him or her into something they are not. You just have to trust your instincts and play your part well.
Be playful with your partner
Empaths tend to be serious most of the time. Lighten up the mood by bringing out the inner child in them at times. This is healthy for both of you and your relationship.
Be honest and truthful
We often lie at times to save ourselves or to avoid disappointing our partners. It is almost impossible to lie to an empath. They always have a way of feeling the inner truth, and if they are persistent, eventually you will confess the truth. Endeavor to be open and truthful because empaths can’t handle being lied to. If issues come up, handle them in complete honesty with each other. However, don’t forget to be mindful of their feelings.
Does the future look bright?
It is important not to work too hard to make things work in a relationship that explicitly has no future. Walk out if you feel that things are hopeless for the two of you. Otherwise, such a relationship might hurt your partner or you emotionally. However, if you take your time to know your partner well, you’ll discover their loveable inner character. Besides, “nothing good comes easy”. Dating an empath has its challenges, but if well done, it is one of the most fulfilling relationships. The rest will fall in place with time.
In Conclusion
Many people confuse empaths for weak people who are nothing but scared. The opposite is true. When surrounded by positive energy they flourish into lovely creatures that are so much fun to hang around. There is no ultimate guide to loving a person, and dating an empath is an exciting experience despite all the compromises. All it takes is enough commitment from both parties and sufficient communication.