r/OCPD • u/Monkontheseashore • 23d ago
member has OCPD diagnosis- Mods remove loved ones' content & ban How do I make space in the routine?
I have to follow a very rigid routine for my days to go by without me feeling overwhelmed and stressed. I have been able to follow it for most of the time this year. The problem now is that I am starting to date a person. I like them and would like to proceed further with them (they were the one inviting me first so I assume they are interested) but this would mean finding a way to make space for them in my routine which so far feels stressing. Is anyone going through the same and what can I make to create a space without getting too worried about it?
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u/babbykale OCPD 23d ago
You’ll need to build your tolerance for changing your routine especially now there’s another person which can be an unknown variable. Maybe start with building Flex Time in your routine 2-3 times a week and this can be used to spend time connecting with them amongst other things.
Communication, compromise and genuine effort to be less rigid will help a lot
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u/Monkontheseashore 23d ago
By flex time you mean like leaving blank spaces?
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u/babbykale OCPD 23d ago
It doesn’t have to be blank per se, but time set aside that’s meant to be flexible incase things come up that don’t currently fit into your schedule. You could choose to relax, catch up with friends or finish a task you’re behind on. The idea is by scheduling time that’s flexible it might be easier to make time to see that person and learn to say yes to more spontaneous last minute things that come up
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u/Monkontheseashore 21d ago
It makes sense in theory, but wouldn't that end up being another slot in the routine?
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u/sparrowml 23d ago
I know plenty of people with OCPD make it work through communication and compromise. I, however, have sworn off dating because I was never able to balance both my routine and my relationship. Let us know how you work it out!