How To Serve Your Love ✅

Step 20: Don't Be Bossy

As the semester continued, Prae and Alex were settling into their routines, balancing their academic responsibilities with their relationship. They had been getting along well, but there were moments when Prae noticed a shift in how they were interacting. Sometimes, in the heat of frustration or stress, she found herself taking a more assertive tone with Alex, which made her uncomfortable.

One evening, after a particularly long day of studying and attending classes, Prae and Alex were working together on a group project for their classes. The project required them to collaborate closely, and tensions were high due to tight deadlines and overlapping commitments.

As they reviewed their work, Prae noticed that Alex was taking a different approach to a section of the project. Feeling frustrated and under pressure, Prae's tone became more critical than she intended.

"Alex, we need to focus on this part more. I think we should do it my way because it's more effective," Prae said, her voice carrying a hint of impatience.

Alex looked up, surprised by her abruptness. "I was actually thinking of doing it this way because it aligns better with the data we have."

Prae, feeling the stress of the deadlines weighing heavily on her, didn't realize her tone was coming off as bossy. She responded, "Well, I still think my approach is better. We're running out of time, and we need to get this right."

Alex's expression shifted from surprise to concern. "Prae, I understand you're stressed, but we need to work together on this. I feel like you're not really listening to my ideas."

Prae paused, realizing that her frustration was causing her to be more controlling than supportive. She took a deep breath and softened her tone. "You're right. I'm sorry for coming off that way. I'm just feeling overwhelmed, and I didn't mean to dismiss your ideas."

Alex nodded, appreciating her acknowledgment. "I get that. We're both under a lot of pressure. Let's try to find a solution together that works for both of us."

Prae took a moment to reflect on how important it was to approach their collaboration as a partnership rather than a hierarchy. She realized that being bossy or controlling was counterproductive and that respecting each other's ideas was essential for a healthy relationship.

"I really appreciate your patience, Alex," Prae said, her voice sincere. "Let's review both our ideas and see how we can merge them to make the project stronger."

They spent the next hour working collaboratively, combining their approaches and finding common ground. As they worked, Prae made a conscious effort to be more supportive and open to Alex's contributions, recognizing that being bossy wasn't helpful for either of them.

By the end of their session, they had developed a well-rounded approach to the project that incorporated both of their perspectives. They felt a renewed sense of teamwork and satisfaction in their work.

Later that evening, as they relaxed together, Prae turned to Alex. "I wanted to thank you for your patience today. I realize I was being too assertive, and I'm sorry for that. I really value your opinions, and I want us to always work together as equals."

Alex smiled, taking her hand. "Thank you for understanding. It's important that we communicate and support each other, especially when we're stressed. We make a great team when we listen to each other."

Prae nodded, feeling grateful for Alex's understanding and for the lesson she had learned. She knew that avoiding being bossy and fostering mutual respect were crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy relationship.

From that point on, Prae made a conscious effort to approach their discussions with a spirit of collaboration and respect. She worked on being more aware of her tone and how her words could impact Alex. She also encouraged open communication and valued Alex's input, which strengthened their partnership both in their relationship and their academic endeavors.

Their experience reinforced the importance of treating each other as equals and working together to overcome challenges. Prae and Alex continued to navigate their busy lives with a renewed sense of mutual respect and support, knowing that their relationship thrived on cooperation rather than control.

TBC