The Coach SpaceKey takeaways
- Be honest and upfront
- Try to understand what your partner is saying
- Try new activities together or get time alone
- Think why you fell in love
At times of increased stress or adverse changes, it’s important to be honest and upfront. Let your partner know if you’re sad, scared, or frustrated. Think about what you need and help them understand it. It might be something as simple as helping around the house.
Agree to disagree
Most people assume they are good listeners, but it’s only true for a precious few. On average, a person who has not tried to develop good listening skills is likely to comprehend and remember just 50% of what they hear, and that’s right after heating it. Forty-eight hours later, retention rates fall below 25%.
During stressful times, couples are likelier to argue. Try to understand your partner’s words, feelings, and concerns. Don’t just wait until it’s your turn to speak; when it is, take a moment before doing so. If you feel upset or angry, take more time before responding.
Don’t let intimacy evaporate
Intimacy tends to fall by the wayside at times of stress. Making an effort to maintain physical contact can help couples survive tumultuous times. Gentle, comforting, non-sexual positions like spooning help partners feel connected in the moment and in tune with one another.
Try a new activity together
According to a study by the National Marriage Project, 64% of couples who regularly try new activities together report feeling more emotionally connected. Novel experiences help foster intimacy and keep relationships dynamic.
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology revealed that couples who engage in novel and exciting activities report 20% higher relationship satisfaction compared to those who stick to routine activities.
77% of couples who tried something new together said the experience deepened their connection, according to a 2020 YouGov survey. Almost 90% of Americans believe cooking together is one of the best ways to keep a relationship strong.
Give each other space
Alternatively, you might need time alone, especially right after an argument. Find a quiet space away from your partner and the rest of your family, if applicable, and listen to music, a podcast, or a book.
Be patient and expect the same
People respond to stress differently. You might feel frustrated if your partner isn’t worried about what worries you. As long as they’re doing their best, be patient with them.
Be grateful
It might be difficult at a time of stress or changes but try to think back to when you fell in love. Be grateful for anything they have done for you in the past. Leave a handmade note in a visible location telling them you love them (once you’ve calmed down).
It’s hard to maintain a romantic connection even without a change occurring. Some women are ending long-term marriages because they’ve become weary of their thankless roles, which seem to involve too much work for other family members, even in 2024. A small survey of 50 women aged 40-60 found that a lot more than half had recently left or were dissatisfied. Some of those who didn’t express pronounced dissatisfaction were anxious about the future.
Men end relationships over unmet expectations and unresolved issues. Alternatively, they might stay because they’re afraid of starting over. The thought of getting back into dating after a long-term relationship can be discouraging. The risk of rejection and the fear of the unknown can be paralyzing for men and women. Even if it’s unfulfilling, the familiar may feel safer than starting over. Whatever the case may be, couples should try to revive their connection and end it only when all else fails.
Recap
- Be open about your feelings
- Be ready for disagreements
- Try new things together
- Be patient
- Practice gratitude
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