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1. How to deal with a clingy girlfriend

So you started dating a happy-go-lucky woman who was quite independent as an individual and shared a friendly equation with you. But you have been noticing changes in her behaviour lately and now your relationship seems to have become the centre of her world. Maybe, she keeps texting or calling you multiple times a day, or needs frequent assurance that you love her dearly. Maybe, she has started sending friend requests to your close friends or family members without asking you and has started encroaching upon your personal space way too much. Well dealing with a clingy partner can be frustrating at times but the situation can be resolved and here’s what you need to do.

2. Try to be in her shoes

First, try understanding why your partner is acting clingy. Has she been feeling neglected and has been behaving in this manner just to get your attention? Does she has trust issues or is feeling insecure? There are also chances that it is your behaviour that is making her act clingy. Ask yourself if you have been texting or calling less than usual or spending less time together. Maybe, what you think is clingy might be her way to express her love or concern.

3. Are you both on the same page?

Mismatched expectations from the relationship can also be a reason behind her clingy behaviour. There could be a probability that she is in love and serious about the relationship and on the other hand, you think it is a casual one.

4. Talk, talk, talk!

Once you have tried thinking from her perspective and figuring out what might be going wrong, you should have a candid discussion with her. Instead of blaming her for encroaching on your personal space, keep the conversation focused on how you are feeling and what can be done to solve the problem. Be a patient listener and encourage her to open up about things that might be bothering her.

5. Make some ground rules

Every relationship needs some mutually-acceptable boundaries to keep it healthy and happy. If you do not like your girlfriend texting or calling you every hour, you both can talk about cutting down the frequency or deciding a specific time to talk over a call every day. If she expects you to invite her to your friend’s parties or family functions, politely explain to her that you enjoy spending time with her on your date nights and would introduce her to your near and dear ones when you feel comfortable.

6. Try being a little patient

The equation between the partners keeps changing in a relationship. Maybe, you both have started dating recently and it is that initial charm of being in a relationship that is making her act clingy. You can try being patient for some time, and see how things go.

7. Little things that you can do!

Sometimes our little gestures go a long way in strengthening the relationship. Whenever you both go out on a date, keep your mobile phone aside and give her all your attention. Whether it is her new dress, handbag or haircut, let her know that you observe little things about her and compliment if you like them. Hug or hold her hand when she is expecting the least or send her a surprise text once in a while and tell her how much you adore her. Remember, you don’t need expensive gifts to make her feel special; it is your care and attention that can make all the difference.

TNN/timesofindia.indiatimes.com