This archive report was first published on 11 June 2020.
Navigating the Marshland of Millennial Relationships ¶
June 11, 2020
Relationships can be a thrilling experience, but they can also be a minefield for millennials. With the rise of smartphones and the internet, the pool of potential partners has increased, but so have the challenges.
According to Tabitha Mwai, a relationship coach, love among millennials is often compartmentalized, with partners seeking instant gratification in areas such as sex, money, fun, experimentation, and companionship. Few young people enter relationships with the hope of finding a life partner, which is a worrying trend.
Many millennials fear heartbreak and approach relationships with a 'ready for failure' attitude, making it difficult for them to commit fully. Some even end up with multiple partners.
So, how do successful millennials navigate these challenges? Four young people who are madly in love with their partners share their stories.
Denis Mbau, 29, Communication Consultant ¶
Denis was once insecure in his relationship, worrying about who his partner was with and who she was speaking to. He realized that insecurities can make one clingy and unattractive, and that he could control the relationship by trusting his partner and being patient.
Denis also learned to compare himself with who he was yesterday, not with what others are today, as taught by Jordan Peterson's book 'Twelve Rules for Life'. He understands that his family members have his best interest at heart, but navigating marriage in today's world calls for maturity, wisdom, and patience.
Mugure Mwangi, 25, Digital Analyst ¶
Mugure's dating experiences have been affected by mismatched expectations between him and his partner. He learned to listen more to his partner and articulate his expectations clearly, which has made things easier for both of them.
Mugure also realized that a relationship can't thrive where there's no financial accountability or mutual respect. He and his partner budget together and share financial obligations to minimize financial disputes.
Cleophas Oluoch, 24, Digital Content Producer ¶
Cleophas and his partner have been dating for three years, and their relationship is anchored on Christian doctrines. They cultivate a culture of openness, apologizing to each other whenever they wrong each other.
However, the distractions of technology, social media, family, and friends, as well as the pressure to grow in their careers and achieve their goals, have significantly affected how they relate as a couple.
