Yes, the need to dominate and as its offshoot, to control, certainly spoils a relationship as it brings fear and, as a consequence, lying.
It usually stems from a weak vital that feels inferior and insecure until it dominates. When extreme it takes the form of anger.
The approach to master this tendency is to first and foremost develop self-confidence and a positive self-esteem about who you are as a person. Develop the things you have always wanted to develop, do the things you have wanted to do. Your freedom sets all who are around you free to be themselves. It is becoming fully self-dependent.
Do a lot of physical work out and deep breathing plus some simple meditation to bring calm into the system.
Be generous towards your partner. All human beings have flaws, limitations, defects. None is perfect.
Remind yourself that each one has his or her own unique trajectory and curve of growth. No two persons are meant to be alike. Let each be oneself and grow / change along their own lines. Find the common meeting grounds and the beautiful things to admire leaving the rest to grow at its own pace.
Finally find a goal and put all your focus on that rather than how the partner is.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
