Relationships can be fragile at times and require care, patience, and effort. Of course, big blowouts can be detrimental to relationships, but it’s important to remember that more subtle things could negatively impact your relationship. Let’s discuss.
Being a Little TOO Quiet
It’s natural for conversation to change over time, but don’t let this turn into not having any conversations that don’t revolve around work or the kids. Sometimes, you just need a conversation prompt, like asking your partner to tell you three things that made them laugh during their day or things they are grateful for. These small prompts can lead to meaningful conversations.
Holding Grudges
If you’re silently holding a grudge, it’s time to forgive, forget, and move on. If you just can’t drop it, now is the time to discuss it with your partner and squash it.
Unnecessary Critiquing
Nobody wants to feel constantly criticized. So, if you are the one criticizing – even in jest – evaluate why you’re doing so and remind yourself that you can’t control every situation. If your partner keeps criticizing you, talk to them about how it makes you feel. They may not even realize they’re doing it.
Being a Fun Sucker
Having fun is part of a healthy relationship. While your definition of fun may change over time, it’s still important to make time for it.
Mistreatment
Just because you’re in a long-term relationship doesn’t give you the right to mistreat them in front of friends and family – even if it’s just a joke. This can lead to embarrassment and general awkwardness for everybody involved.
Only Pretending to Listen
When you’re in a relationship, you can’t just go through the motions. Active listening takes effort. The seemingly small acts of making eye contact, nodding, and asking questions can mean a lot to a person.
Hitting the Whine a Little Too Hard
A person who spews negativity and complaints is no fun to be around. Train your brain to look at the silver lining by ending any venting with a compliment, something you learned from this experience, or how you will handle similar situations differently in the future.
Poor Time Management
It’s important to find a happy medium for spending time together. You have to exist outside of your relationship, but you also don’t want to spend too much time without your partner. It may take time to find a balance, but once you figure it out, stick to it.