Unable to communicate with partner

[Enigma1001]

My partner and I have been in a relationship for over 2 years. About more than half of it was long distance. After much planning and deliberation we were able to finally be in the same city and eventually decided to live together. My partner is an extremely affectionate individual. He is an awesome guy. Caring, supportive, understanding. But sometimes it just becomes too overwhelming for me. I love him and I love being with him but sometimes I just feel like I need my space. That I need to breathe. That I don't want to cuddle and kiss and make out every single time we have some time to ourselves. I just feel like if we aren't talking about something serious or related to his work then we have to be making out. And if I am not in the mood he automatically takes that to mean that I am unwell. How do I tell him that I need some space? How do I tell him that his love and affection is starting to smother me without hurting his feelings too badly?

[Matt3939]

Buy a car and do work on it in the garage. Make a lot of noise. Usually grinding metal works great. It's loud and some people are afraid of the sparks. Specially if they feel they might want to get an mri in the future. They don't want to have to click the check box for high speed metal work.

 

If it's constant just tell him you need some time by yourself. Make it known you aren't pulling away you just want some me time.

[Dahl]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

 

I think that you expressed yourself quite very well in your OP. If you present your thoughts and feelings to him in the manner, you explained your concerns above, I think that should be a grand start. 'I want us both to feel secure in taking time and space for ourselves. Please know that when I'm focused on other aspects of life, I'm not less interested in you as a partner. I'm looking to lay some positive groundwork for both of us and for the health and security of our relationship, long-term. I appreciate how affectionate and open you are with me. I want you to know that when I'm happily occupied in my own thoughts and activities, I'm not pulling or taking anything away from you or us.'

 

How is your communication, in general?

[Wiseman2]

Have you read the book Five Love Languages?

 

Take the quiz here to learn about yourself a bit: 5 love languages.

 

 

It may shed light on why people need different levels of affection. Also, introverts need more alone time. Open a dialogue about your introversion, need for quiet reflection, make that about you not him...because it is

My partner is an extremely affectionate individual.I love him and I love being with him but sometimes I just feel like I need my space.