I'm a 19-year-old female considering ending my relationship with my 22-year-old girlfriend so I can focus on being independent in college. What do you think?
We began dating in October of last year, and the start was quite bumpy. At the time, neither of us (her 22F and me 19F) was looking for a partner, but we clicked right away and began spending more time together. My girlfriend is sweet, kind, and has a love for bright colors. She's very creative and has ADHD. Initially, I was attracted to taller individuals who were difficult to get (you know what I mean). I communicated my uncertainty to her, explaining that she wasn't exactly my type, yet I liked her and felt conflicted about becoming a couple. Although I found her cute, she didn't draw me in like others had. I worried a lot about her being unsure of where we stood, and while she advised me not to stress, it was hard not to. After a lot of contemplation, I realized I genuinely liked her; she was kind and sweet, unlike previous types that wouldn’t have been healthy for me. So, we decided to be together, and now she’s become my person. With her, I can truly be myself, and I’ve never experienced such unconditional love before. In the summer, I chose to study law, while she was already majoring in archaeology with a minor in primeval and early history. I was searching for a shared apartment, but due to my age, I kept facing rejections. Additionally, we both weren’t keen on long-distance arrangements, so she decided to move in with me and switch her minor. The aspect that bothers me most about our living situation is the distance from the university. The train only runs once an hour, usually 20 minutes late, so it takes me about an hour to reach campus. This is frustrating, especially since I often have long breaks (5-6 hours), and the university isn’t great for passing the time (the cafeteria closes at 2 PM). Plus, without a car, grocery shopping is challenging, and the living expenses are high since we need a car, though the rent is manageable given the size of the place. I could rent a room closer to campus for the same price. Socially, it’s tough too because there’s only one train per hour, and most social activities, including the nearest gym, are near the university. At first, she was adamant about not wanting to move again, which stressed me out since she only wanted to live with me and disliked long-distance arrangements. I panicked, thinking moving out would lead to an indirect breakup. I expressed my desire to move out, but she was upset because I made that decision unilaterally without discussing it. That was my mistake. I was overly caught up in my thoughts and terrified of letting her down, yet I couldn’t envision living like this for another semester. I enjoy going out, hitting the gym, and being part of my book club, and I felt trapped in this small town with little to do. I longed for the freedom to go to the gym whenever I wanted and to be able to walk home if the train were to get canceled (which happens about three times a month). I recognized my need for more autonomy, to go where I please. In the past, I had taken on a maternal role for my younger sister after my parents split. My girlfriend struggles with completing tasks due to her ADHD, but she’s shown improvement since we started living together. However, I also feel like I’ve let myself go; our place is a bit messy and that bothers me. I’m not as ambitious as I used to be and don’t engage in as many activities. In the beginning, I worried about covering her share of the rent since I have some savings (around 1-2k) and she had none. I ended up paying for most of our furniture and essentials, except for the washing machine and the bed her mom gave her. She mentioned that the first few months would be tough financially. She had difficulty landing a job and wouldn’t allow me to help. Thankfully, she could only pay rent in the second month thanks to a last-minute job offer for just three days. She only has a job now because I helped her secure it. Overall, it’s been quite a challenge. Additionally, she frequently asked me if I would ever consider an open relationship, given our young start. At first, we both thought it might be an option, but now she’s firm on not wanting one, which is fine, as she desires someone who’s devoted to her. I want the best for her too. Yet, I’m left feeling conflicted. Can I truly feel free in a relationship? Or should I focus on being single and prioritizing my own needs, studies, and goals? Am I drawn to her, or just the concept of a loving relationship?