Posting on here as a distraction from the Corona virus as it's all we seem to be talking about....
My partner is loving and affectionate in private but seems to be a bit emotionally stilted in other ways, e.g. he finds it difficult to show any physical affection in front of others, e.g. when we are out with another couple we see regularly they are holding hands, arm in arm, quite physical etc (not in an annoying way but in a natural, sweet way) and there's me and my partner walking ten feet apart!!
The only time we walk together is when I go over to him and grab his arm. It has caused a few stand-offs as it makes me feel quite upset. He admits to being stubborn so I know he's not going to do it just because I want it. He says he just isn't 'like' that. .Well I'm not 'like' a lot of things but I've compromised and do lots of things to make him happy. Surely a relationship is all about changing some aspects of your personality?
It has put me off going out with this couple as it highlights the difference every time and makes me feel pissed off. I don't want him to kiss me or be over the top, just to show that he's with me. It affects my confidence as I then begin to get a little bit insecure that he doesn't want to show the world he is with me, silly I know. The ironic thing is I never used to be particularly tactile in public with previous partners, but now I'm with someone who isn't I crave it.
Am I being unreasonable to expect him to loosen up a bit and show some affection in public?
Stay safe all you lovely Mumsnetters x