How to Keep Your Partner Engaged in Difficult Conversations
In this video, Dr. Malec answers a question submitted by one of our readers. This letter writer wonders how to keep their partner engaged in difficult conversations. Watch the video above for Dr. Malec’s response.
Approaching Difficult Conversations With Your Partner
Invite your partner to the conversation
It’s important that your partner gets the time and space they need to consider what they have to say. Don’t spring a difficult conversation on them; talk about it in advance and decide together when you will discuss the issue.
Set a timer
You may find it helpful to set a timer before a difficult conversation. Give yourselves 20 minutes to talk about this issue. If you don’t find a resolution in this time frame, table the discussion until tomorrow.
Be solution-focused
Instead of thinking of it as an argument, think about this difficult conversation as a brainstorming session. You are trying to solve a relationship problem together. It’s not about blaming or shaming anyone; neither of you is right or wrong. You have a difference of opinion, and it is important to hear those differences out to show respect for each other.
Don’t get defensive
During difficult conversations, it can be difficult not to get defensive. If you feel like you are being criticized or disrespected, it’s natural to get defensive. Make a concerted effort not react defensively. If either of you feel overwhelmed, agitated, or angry, you may need to take a break from the conversation and return to it later when you’re calmer.
We hope that these tips help you to navigate the important but difficult conversations you must have with your partner. If you feel you could benefit from therapy in Chicago, contact Symmetry Counseling today.
Recent Posts
Healing the Heart – Tips for How to Get Over a Breakup
Breakups can be extremely difficult for both the heart and the mind. Grieving the loss of a relationship is taxing both mentally and emotionally. Whether you initiated the breakup or are the individual being broken up with, the pain and…
Read MoreSurviving the Holidays: 5 Tips for Managing Holiday Stress
Paula Gonzalez MA, LPC, ADHD-CCSP, CIMHP The Christmas holiday season can be filled with “tidings of comfort and joy!.” It can also be filled with lots of invitations to holiday parties that will have you “rockin’ around the Christmas tree…
Read MoreWhy Am I Overwhelmingly Stressed Out & How to Find Relief?
What does feeling overwhelmed look like? Generally, it can be defined as difficulty coping with a stressful situation that can affect a person physically and mentally. This can make it difficult to manage day-to-day tasks, connect to others, make decisions,…
Read MoreDo You Need Help?
Not what you were looking for?