Relationships

Perfection and ideals are purely conceptual by nature, so compromise is essential. This applies to many things, including a careers and relationships. Everyone carries around in their mind an idea of a perfect world. Some concept of an ideal is formed and used as a scale to measure potential real-life situations. As they go through their lives, they choose options closest to their ideal as possible, thus lessening the need for compromise. As better options become available, things are often replaced. Now, unless you believe in soul mates, this includes romantic partners. Compromise is what makes this world go around. When it is absent or has not been established, conflicts occur. Perfection does not exist, and there will always be a gap in people's ideals.

Here's a small excerpt of something I wrote a while ago after scrutinizing the film Before Sunset:

"In a sense, we all have that one person who we compare everyone else to. It may not be your ideal mate, but it is a person in your life you have either dated or befriended who you've identified with on a deeper level than anyone else. It may be a collection of people, a handful, or even just a few. We use this as to gauge new people we encounter. If you're lucky, you'll find someone who goes off the scale. Hell, you're lucky even if someone comes close. This may or may not be true, but from what I know... and from personal experience, we spend an abundant amount of time thinking about this person. Even if you are in a relationship... you might even be somewhat happy with it, but if this person rates even a 9/10 on your mental scale, you can't help but fall victim to the constant flood of thoughts of what could have been, what could be, and if you're willing to repress these thoughts for the sake of your current relationship. "

In my opinion, all attraction is quantitative. Whether you're willing to admit it or not, we measure people, consciously and unconsciously. While objectively, the color of a person's hair or the way they smell are qualitative, they are quantitative to an individual with opinions. Naturally, the person who rates the highest in all categories is usually the one pursued.

Depending on your state of mind, the idea that there will always be someone better than you, can be slightly depressing. The idea that one day you might be replaced can put enough fear and worry in anyone and deter them from starting any sort of relationship.

This cannot stop you from living though. Understand it. Accept it. The important thing is to keep moving while maintaining and embracing the connections you make throughout your life. Despite who you may be with, the connections you make with people should always matter. These are the things that will get you through the day. Keep them close, as they will fulfil you.