It is common to hear of couples being joined to the hip. But spending too much time together can hurt a relationship. Therefore, you should not spend too much time together with your partner so as to minimize potential conflicts.

There must be a healthy balance between ME (individual needs) and US (needs of relationship). This can be shown using a simple equation:

"ME + ME = US"

Too much "ME" can result in you and your partner drifting apart, while too much "US" can stifle your partner, causing resentment and undesirable conflicts.

So how do you nurture your individuality? You can:

1. indulge in an activity that you enjoy alone.

2. hang out with your friends. Update them on what has been going on in your life. It will be easier for your friends to accept your partner into your social circle this way.

3. spend the weekends with your families.

How much "ME" time you need depends on what you and your partner are comfortable with. For example, some couples seem to do well spending every waking moment together. To really understand the amount of "ME" time you need,

1. talk to your partner about how much time you prefer to spend with each other on a daily or weekly basis.

2. acknowledge and understand your partner's commitments outside your relationship. If need be, give your partner more space.

3. trust your partner and be confident with yourself. Make changes if what you have tried is not working.

However exciting it is to spend time together, remember that there are places to be and things both of you have to do.

Your world should never revolve around one person or relationship.