The 5 Relationship Myths Married at First Sight’s Paul C. Brunson Says You Should Ignore
Paul C. Brunson, the renowned relationship expert and matchmaker from Married at First Sight, has spent years helping couples navigate love, commitment, and partnership. Over time, he has encountered numerous myths about relationships that people mistakenly believe to be true. These misconceptions can often lead to unnecessary conflicts and unrealistic expectations. Here are five relationship myths that Brunson says you should ignore if you want a successful and fulfilling relationship.
1. Opposites Attract and Make the Best Couples
Many people believe that being with someone who is completely different from them creates a balanced and exciting relationship. While differences can complement each other in some cases, Brunson emphasizes that shared values, communication styles, and life goals are far more important. Research supports that long-term relationships thrive when couples have more similarities than differences. While attraction to someone different may initially feel exciting, deep compatibility is built on common ground.
2. Happy Couples Never Argue
The idea that a perfect couple never fights is unrealistic and misleading. Brunson points out that all couples experience disagreements. What separates strong relationships from struggling ones is how couples argue. Successful partners know how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts with respect, and find compromises without resentment. Avoiding arguments altogether can actually lead to unresolved issues that build up over time, causing more damage in the long run.
3. Your Partner Should Complete You
This myth, popularized by movies and romantic novels, suggests that a romantic partner should fill all the gaps in your life. However, Brunson warns that relying on someone else for complete fulfillment places unrealistic pressure on the relationship. A healthy partnership consists of two whole individuals who complement each other but also maintain their own identities, passions, and independence. Instead of seeking someone to complete you, strive to be whole on your own and find a partner who enhances your life.
4. Love Alone is Enough to Make a Relationship Work
While love is an essential component of any romantic relationship, it is not the only factor that determines long-term success. According to Brunson, commitment, communication, trust, and mutual effort are equally important. Many couples who deeply love each other still struggle due to lack of compatibility, unresolved issues, or differences in priorities. Love should be the foundation, but it needs to be supported by respect, effort, and shared goals to sustain a healthy relationship.
5. A Relationship Should Always Feel Exciting
Many people believe that if the passion and excitement fade, it means the relationship is failing. However, Brunson explains that all relationships go through different phases. The initial honeymoon period is naturally filled with excitement, but long-term love requires effort and commitment. A relationship evolves into a deeper, more stable connection over time. Instead of chasing constant excitement, couples should focus on building emotional intimacy, shared experiences, and meaningful connections.
Final Thoughts
Paul C. Brunson encourages couples to challenge these common myths and focus on what truly makes relationships work. Love is not about fairy tales or unrealistic expectations; it’s about mutual respect, effort, and the willingness to grow together. By letting go of these misconceptions, couples can build stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling partnerships.
