(Image source from: The Gottman Institute)

The thought of being in a committed relationship concurrently independent is something every woman believes is beyond the bounds of possibility.

If you are under the same impression, then certainly, you are utterly mistaken since you can be an exciting girlfriend and badass independent woman at the same time. You don't have to compromise either of them - you just need to find a balance.

Here we will let you know how:

Have Your Own Interests

Regardless of your boyfriend's, it is important to possess your own leisure activities and interests that you are fond of.

It is all right to share an interest with him or find something new that you never knew about previously, but don't give up your own passions for the benefit of the relationship.

Make Some 'You' Time

Uh-huh, you still need time for yourself when you are in a relationship.

It is necessary to have your own time, it is inessential to be around him 24/7 and it, in reality, makes your relationship better.

Stay Yourself

It is not difficult to get sucked into the relationship and start changing, nonetheless, spend more time with your hobbies or friends.

Make certain you are still contended with who you are. Remember, you still have to recognize yourself if the relationship ends.

Don't Push Your Friends Away

Your friends were always there with you before he was, so don't push them away.

They love you for you, and they will also remind you to not change. The friends are the ones who keep you grounded.

Have Space That's All Yours

If you live together, alone time might appear like a fantasy.

That's why you need a space that's just for you. It could be a room or even a corner of a room that's full of nothing but your stuff. Let your man know that you are not to be disturbed when you are in your space unless it's an emergency.

Don't Compromise

Your values, moral standards, goals, and loved ones are what make you who you are.

Don't ever compromise those. Relationships require compromise, but certain things are non-negotiable. Remember, your independence is one of those things.

Speak up When You're Pissed

Don't hold back, if you get pissed, say something.

Of course, make sure you fight fairly, too. He is not going to amply understand your independence if you stay quiet all the time. Let him know how you feel and that you have opinions, too.

Believe in yourself

Sometimes he is going to doubt you, nevertheless, you are in an independent woman.

Believe in yourself and do what you want, anyway.

He's Your Partner, Not Your Owner

Some guys seem to think they are your owner in a relationship.

The number one key to staying independent in relationships is to always make sure he understands that you are equal partners. The best idea is for each of you to have your own responsibilities in the relationship so no one's "in charge."

-Sowmya Sangam