In fact, maintaining separate interests and friendships can be good for individual mental health, as well as the health of your relationship (see autonomy above). Knowing your partner accepts you as you are can help create a sense of belonging in the relationship. Not everyone shows affection in the same ways, but partners generally get used to each other’s unique approaches toward fulfilling this need.
“[If you are] stressed about something in your own life or grieving a loss, your mental energy to care about someone [else] might be limited,” she adds. Wanting to be seen and heard and understood are basic human needs. Team Tony cultivates, curates and shares Tony Robbins’ stories and core principles, to help others achieve an extraordinary life. Loved ones play an important role in not only the shaping of a person but also in informing their responses. They are a window into who your partner is, so get to know them.
A person may feel the need to test their relationship when communicating their concerns feels too complicated or they struggle to express their feelings. We may be left with the remains of difficult or complicated relationships as we cook a new connection or friendship, or season others. Sometimes, we may turn the heat up and test the pots that have the potential to bubble over and burn because we are lacking control or struggle to communicate our needs. Instead, talking openly and honestly to your partner can be the best way to approach it. They will appreciate the interest you are showing in them, and good communication can only strengthen your relationship.
One of the keys to a successful and lasting relationship is understanding your partner. By taking the time to truly get to know and empathize with your significant other, you can strengthen your bond and build a solid foundation for your relationship.
If you would like guidance on how to improve the communication in your relationship to better understand your partner’s emotions, then Remainly is here to help. If communication and understanding each other’s emotions is something you have difficulties within your relationship, then it could be time to explore marriage guidance counselling. As life takes over, it can seem tricky to put in the work needed to maintain a strong bond between you. One of the biggest issues that arise is the lack of understanding of a partner’s emotions.
Communicate Openly and Honestly
It may be difficult to be empathetic with your partner in every situation or every time. But practicing empathy in relationships may be the glue that holds them together. Paraphrasing – A big part of listening is making it clear to your partner that you “get it.” To do that, you want to recap what your partner just said to you, but in your own words. This shouldn’t devolve into a word-by-word thesaurus challenge, but should be a quick summary.
Challenges arise in every relationship and overcoming them is made easier if you and your partner agree that couples therapy may be worth a try. People often project their own feelings onto a partner, and assume that they feel a similar way, or cannot even consider that a partner could have a different emotional response to a situation. It is important to remember that you do not have to agree on everything in a relationship. Often, a disagreement is simply a misunderstanding, and by allowing your partner to speak without becoming overly defensive can be what is needed. Understand exactly what your partner is saying before you jump in with a response.
Communication is key in any relationship. Make sure to listen actively to your partner when they are speaking and express your thoughts and feelings openly and honestly. This will help you both understand each other better and avoid misunderstandings.
Show Empathy and Compassion
Empathy is crucial in understanding your partner’s emotions and perspective. Try to put yourself in their shoes and see things from their point of view. Show compassion and support when they are going through tough times, and celebrate their successes with them.
Ask Questions and Listen
Don’t be afraid to ask your partner questions to gain a better understanding of their likes, dislikes, hopes, and fears. Make an effort to actively listen to their responses and show genuine interest in what they have to say.
Respect Differences and Compromise
Every individual is unique, and it’s important to respect your partner’s differences. Instead of trying to change them, embrace who they are and find ways to compromise when conflicts arise. This will help foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding in your relationship.
- How can I better understand my partner’s love language?
- What are some common communication pitfalls to avoid in a relationship?
- How does practicing active listening improve understanding in a relationship?
