For reasons I can’t quite pinpoint, I’ve always been drawn to bromance movies. I love their silliness and that they’re mostly lighthearted and dumb AF, but I’ve noticed that when I’ve paid closer attention, I’ve been able to find a deeper meaning. Strangely enough, they’ve given me insight on how to be a better girlfriend.
- “I Love You, Man” taught me the importance of dating. Once I’m past the honeymoon stage, I find my relationships get a little stagnant. Routine and comfort are great, but when we’re consistently doing things outside the bubble of our comfort zone, it makes a huge difference in how we treat each other daily. We don’t get as muddled down with day to day things and it gives us something to look forward to.
- “The Sandlot” taught me the importance of working together for a common goal. Whether it’s an exciting goal like buying a home or a vacation or getting through a rough time financially or with family, being in a relationship means being a team. We band together and do whatever it takes to reach our target and I love relishing in the fact that we did it together. A feeling of accomplishment like that lasts a long time.
- “Dumb & Dumber” taught me the importance of staying optimistic when things seem impossible. I’ve had moments where things seem like they’re unraveling before my eyes. It’s such a hard place to be and it’s easy for me to get discouraged. When it comes to my other half, I really try to be the one who is glass half-full. There has to be a glimmer of light when things get dark and I know that if it’s not me, it will be him.
- “The Shawshank Redemption” taught me the importance of loyalty. Where I may not agree with everything my boyfriend says or does, for the most part, I’ll always take his side. We have each other’s backs through it all. The longer I’m with someone, the more this comes into play and before long it’s not even a second thought, it all comes naturally. We’re best friends as well as partners through the good and the bad.
- “Fight Club” taught me the importance of not ignoring the crazy side, but not enabling it. I’ll admit, I can go from zero to crazy in a matter of seconds during a fight. Sometimes it’s justified and sometimes it’s just ridiculous. I definitely want my feelings to be acknowledged but there’s a fine line and I need a guy who’ll call me out when I start to border on insane. I want to be held accountable, otherwise, it’s not good for either of us. It’s hurt my relationships in the past so now I try to be as mindful as possible when I have my “crazy” moments.
- “Superbad” taught me the importance of not becoming too close. I get that being close with someone is a good thing, don’t get me wrong! Sometimes, though, you just need some space. I don’t want to be that couple that’s a “we” in everything. I want to keep my own identity and I want him to as well. It’s like when I was growing up and I’d spend every waking moment with my best friend and after a few days, we couldn’t even look at each other. I don’t want that with my boyfriend. A little space is necessary to thrive.
- “Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle” taught me the importance of spontaneity. I’ve already mentioned that dates are essential, but sometimes I need more than just a planned evening out. I get this doesn’t work for everyone but for the most part, my lifestyle allows a little random adventure room. It can be something extravagant like a last minute road trip to a nearby city, or something simple like a midnight junk food run.
- “Stand By Me” taught me the importance of accepting each other unconditionally. We all have our war stories and battle wounds, don’t we? Those can be intimidating when you first open up to a new relationship. I try to think what I would need in that situation. Being vulnerable is difficult for me but if what I say is received in a loving way, I am able to be more open. I love having that kind of intimacy with someone so I’ll treat them exactly how I expect to be treated.
- “TED” taught me the importance of support. Overall, I want the best for my partner, whatever that may be. I may not be the greatest at showing it all the time, but it’s always there and I make sure he knows that. He’s my guy, my love, my best friend, and even when we’re snippy with each other, I’ll never let go during the hard times.
