Because high stress levels can lead to disconnection, we tend to focus on negative stories and what your partner is not doing. Retrain your attention on connection and positive stories. Individuals need time on their own for personal growth and to maintain independence within the confines of a relationship. While individuals flourish, the relationship itself benefits.
A failing marriage is the worst relationship catastrophe that you can imagine. If unfortunately, your relationship breaks own after all, you will survive the breakup with your sense of self intact. And, just in case you need it, see my article on how to win your ex back as a last resort. With a commitment to yourself and to the process, you stand the best possible chance of making some real changes that can lead to your saving your relationship. The best outcome would be if they chose to do something differently based on their own assessment and motivation to change.
Relationships can be a source of joy and fulfillment, but they can also have their challenges. If you find yourself asking “what can I do to fix my relationship?” here are some tips that may help.
It costs nothing to be kind but it’s value is worth a lot more than money can buy. If you can be kind to each other it proves that you care. Being kind means not being hurtful, it means you can move forward in a loving relationship. Showing kindness to each other will bring out the love you have inside of you for the other person. You will find strength in each other when you decide to explore a new path..
When you’re living in close quarters, being accommodating of their needs and preferences without sacrificing your own can help foster more happiness and fulfillment. Avoid becoming defensive or sidestepping your mistake, but don’t fall into self-loathing either. “You should own it in a loving way that creates the space to start to rebuild trust,” says Kraushaar. Anytime trust is broken, there’s going to be a rift in the relationship. It might be painful to face, but leaving these issues unaddressed won’t help anyone in the long run.
A research assistant rated the category of offense, such as criticism, betrayal, misunderstanding, and failed obligation, categories used in the previous two studies. Participants in the control condition received no additional instructions other than to describe the offense. You think of yourself as a caring and thoughtful person who wouldn’t hurt someone else, much less your partner. Sadly, it’s exactly when you have hurt someone else that you’re least likely to want to admit it. It’s possible that you’re typically already quite high in empathy, or what the authors regard as “trait” empathy. This should theoretically make it easier for you to drive over the speedbump of your own self-protective tendencies.
Perhaps your partner bought you a thoughtfully chosen gift that they thought would be exactly to your liking. However, much to your partner’s dismay, when you opened it, your face apparently communicated disappointment. Hurt by your lack of appreciation for their effort, your partner shuts down, and you’re worried that the episode could have long-lasting ramifications. The easiest way to do this to try doing the opposite of your instincts. If you tend to withdraw, try stepping up and speaking up; if you get angry, calm down and listen; if you accommodate, figure out what you really want and say it rather than walking on eggshells.
Communicate Openly and Honestly
If there’s mutual love, however, you may both want to put in the work to spark the flame and strengthen your connection for the long run. You can bring the spark back into your relationship by remembering what brought you two together, listening to the needs of your partner, and finding space for things you both enjoy. “The same old tattoo” is what a certain someone in my life used to say dismissively, with his arms folded across his chest, whenever I brought up anything that was bothering me. This interaction actually has a name—“demand/withdrawal”—and a deserved reputation for being an especially effective relationship killer around and reliable predictor of divorce. You might try challenging yourself by anticipating what their needs are and what they may need from you in the future. If you know your partner is going into a challenging work week, for example, you can prepare yourself for being extra supportive during that time.
One of the most important aspects of any relationship is communication. **Open** and **honest** communication can help resolve conflicts, build trust, and deepen your connection with your partner. Make sure to express your feelings and listen actively to your partner’s concerns.
Take Responsibility for Your Actions
In order to fix a relationship, it’s crucial to take responsibility for your own actions. **Acknowledge** your mistakes, apologize when necessary, and make an effort to change any behaviors that may be causing harm to the relationship. This **demonstrates** maturity and a willingness to work on the relationship.
Seek Professional Help
If your relationship is **struggling** and you’re not sure how to fix it, don’t hesitate to seek **professional help**. A therapist or counselor can provide **guidance** and **support** as you work through your issues together.
FAQs on Fixing Relationships
- What if my partner doesn’t want to work on the relationship?
- Is it possible to rebuild trust after a betrayal?
- How can I show my partner that I’m committed to fixing our relationship?
