A basic expectation of a relationship is that therelationship must provide us with closeness or intimacy.
However, what does intimacy means? It means to know mypartner very well, be able to communicate on a deeper level, feeling safe andto share secrets. It also means that we can be open with the ones we lovewithout fearing of rejection. Trust is part of intimacy – we must trust eachother; even with our lives!
Unfortunately, the need for intimacy is also a source ofconflict within the relationship as men and women have different opinions andviews of what intimacy indeed is. We all want love and intimacy but we do notsee these two things in the same light.
It is a fact that menand women are from ‘different planets’:
- Men view intimacy in a relationship in terms of power andbring this into the relationship. Money is power for them and therefore theymay show their love through loyalty and providing financially for theirpartners. To be wealthy, is a way of expressing their commitment and caring ina relationship. That is why they are not always able to communicate theirdeepest, intimate feelings to their partners.
- On the other hand, women, often need that personal touch – thoselittle intimate gestures of attention, love, and affection that make them feelspecial and close to their partners. Women are more inclined to demonstratetheir love by means of being warm and affectionate and by expressing theiremotions.
Due to these differences between men and women, inunderstanding intimacy and the different ways in showing it, we need to talk toeach other. If we do not, misunderstandings, which could lead todissatisfaction and anger, are likely to sour any relationship.
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