I'm 25 and have been dating my girl (also 25) since high school. We both have full time jobs, and have been living together for almost a year. I've been following TRP since college and know how cohabitation is viewed here. I took the plunge but proceeded cautiously so we opted for an arrangement where we initially had a month by month lease and are now on a short sublease (1 bedroom, not very large but good setup and location). By sticking to RP tenets it hasn't been a compete trainwreck. I make time for my own endeavors, take care of myself, go to the gym etc. She is clean, feminine and fit. We still have sex a few times a week. I can be better with hobbies and developing more consistent friend groups, but it's a work in progress. But we are both out of the house most of the week with work and other shit and really mainly chill on weekends.

This lease is coming to an end in a few months and we came across a great 2 bedroom under the same management that would give us a big upgrade on space with only a tiny rent increase. While our first year wasn't a bad experience, I can't help but wonder if I should live alone or with male roommates. I realize I'm getting to an age and the relationship is getting to a point where im virtually locked down, but I feel hesitant bc I am inexperienced. I've also got the impression that to reach your potential, you need a period of selfishly focusing on improvement and growth. Can this be done while in a relationship? Obviously I can head to MRP & focus on managing the relationship, but I've seen conflicting advice on ending an objectively good LTR for no reason to focus inwardly.

I know there are more things I need to learn regarding women, maintaining attraction, etc that are necessary for success while cohabiting. I don't want to sound like I have oneitis, but I do feel I derive value from the relationship and its a net positive. The main thing holding me back is my age, lack of experience, and not wanting to get screwed over in the long run. I am focused on building my career and overall self improvement, and she is also career driven and not really harping on marriage, babies and shit just yet. However, the lease ending feels like an opportunity to pull the chord on this and take the time to get my life where I want it to be. But I am conflicted bc I don't want to miss out on a potentially good set up due to grass is greener syndrome. Maybe I've read too many horror stories on MRP and deadbedrooms and its giving me cold feet? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

TLDR: Wondering if I should end cohabitation with 8 yr LTR if things have been smooth in order to focus on reaching my potential or if I should continue managing this set up it yields overall benefits