A Relationship vs. Facebook: Which would you Choose?

Social networking sites are fast becoming the most popular way to keep in touch with others, including our significant others. We check updates, exchange photos, and leave messages on what seems to be a constant basis.

But sometimes, our addiction to social networking can wreak havoc on a relationship. Jealousy and misunderstanding stem from angry wall posts, status updates, and even photos. If you find yourself checking on your significant other several times a day to make sure he doesn't post anything objectionable or questionable on his Twitter or Facebook page, it may be time to consider taking a break.

I'm not suggesting closing your accounts. But there is something to be said for de-friending or un-following a significant other, even if you are still dating him. Social media can play tricks with our emotions if we allow it to guide our relationships.

My first suggestion would be to know yourself and your tendencies. If you are able to refrain and stop checking your significant other's pages several times a day, great. If you are able to have real conversations instead of posting angry messages back and forth, you are in a good position to keep your social networking connection alive.

However, if you find yourself unable to log on without checking his or her latest status updates, or if you find your emotions going up and down depending on whether he tweets you or not, it's time to reassess. Relationships are real life, not virtual. And ideally, you each have your own life and don't need to spend 24/7 with each other, and that includes social networking. Just because it's easily accessible doesn't make it a healthy part of your relationship. So, do yourself and your significant other a favor and if you have to, un-friend and un-follow to get your relationship back on track.

In the end, a relationship's success is all about how you communicate. Try to keep misunderstandings to a minimum by being clear, honest, and talking over the phone or in-person about what's bothering you. Don't leave it to social networking.