I think it’s safe to say that things are getting intense in these streets. As of yesterday, the UK is essentially on lockdown, because if there is one thing that is clear to Bor-Jo and a lot of us out here, some people can’t be trusted to just do the right thing. Needless to say, those of us who can, are social distancing and working from home. Shoutout to all the essential workers such as the NHS and supermarket workers who are on the frontlines. Social distancing is as much for us as it is for them. Whilst we all know it’s the right move, we’re all getting a bit angsty. This could not be truer for those self isolating with a new partner.

It’s a big move to indefinitely be in the same space for months on end. So, here are 4 tips for self isolating with a new partner…

Alone Time is Still Important

Even though you can’t leave the house more than once a day to exercise, that doesn’t mean you and your new partner have to do every single thing together. It’s great that you both feel ready to take this step to be together. Whether you’d moved in before the pandemic or just decided you didn’t want to do ‘long distance’ in this time, it can still be intense. You’re still individuals who want to spend your days doing different things.

You can spend some of your time separately, especially if you’re working from home. If you’re videochatting with friends, act like you’re going out to meet them and go to a different room. Even if you’re in the same room, know that you don’t have to be doing the same activity. Keeping sane requires some alone time every now and then.

Make Sure You’re Honest About How You’re Feeling

If you are starting to feel the strain of self isolating with a new partner or just of the general situation the world is in, talk about it. We all need support right now and you’d hope that this is something you can get in your relationship. Since you’re in such close quarters, it would be extra awkward if one of you blew your fuse. You can’t exactly storm out now, can you?

Right now, communication is key. Resentment building up will only make the days seem longer. Now, is a great time to make sure that you and your new partner can approach any conflict like adults. Also, open communication is always important anyway!

Still Keep Up With Date Nights

Hopefully, you were already having date nights before this. If not, self isolating with a new partner is the perfect time to get that started. It’s essential to find positives here where we can. Being at home doesn’t have to kill the romance. There are still a ton of things you guys can do together (despite the obvious 😉 )

You can learn recipes together, have movie nights, do arts and crafts, play games. You can even attempt to draw/paint each other, which could be pretty jokes depending on how bad you are at it. Plus, if you wanted to go on a double date, you could with videochatting. Technology has your back! Also, you won’t be spending too much money and you’ll have to get creative!

Remember Your Friends

You and your new partner are not the only people self isolating and social distancing. Just because you can’t go physically see your friends, doesn’t mean you should forget them. Remember to check in with them and make time to chill with them (virtually) like you would back in the day (so a few weeks ago.)

There are many ways to do this. All manner of videochat apps and also you can still use WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to text. For your mental health, it’s important to keep all these relationships (friendships and otherwise) going and to have a strong support system. We’re all in this together.

So, there you have it! 4 tips for self isolating with a new partner. A quick one, remember that if you happen to have another flatmate (aside from your new partner) the last thing they want is to constantly feel like they’re third wheeling in their own home, whether they’re single or not. So, be aware and respectful! It’s all about balance, people! Remember, stay home and stay social.