Relationship Problem Advice
From Adviceopedia
If you're looking for relationship problem advice, then this list will offer up some ideas on improving your communication, staying connected, and helping you discover professional help if needed.
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Relationship Problem Advice
Formal Connections
Before discussing any important issues as a couple, take a moment to create a mutual connection. Sit down face to face. Hold hands and stare into each others eyes for as long as is comfortable – hopefully at least 30 seconds.
Taking Turns
If one of you consistently monopolize conversations or you argue in your arguments about whose turn it is to talk, try this simple technique. Have a small block or ball to represent the podium. Whoever has the ball or block is only allowed to speak. Pass the item back and forth as a symbol of whose turn it is to talk.
Share Similar Goals
Assumptions can quickly ruin any relationship. Instead of expecting your partner to follow your plans, communicate what your goals are together. Start by independently making a list of your future goals and plans. Section it by month, 1 year, 5 years and 20 years. Then sit down together, compare lists, and talk.
Positive Strokes
Make a point of complimenting your partner at least once each day. Make it genuine and specific – like you did a nice job mowing the lawn or dinner tonight was especially tasty.
Weekly Activities
Set aside at least an hour each week to do something together (just the two of you) that is truly enjoyable and pure fun for both. It could be as simple as going to a movie, a hike in the park or massaging each other’s feet on the couch – as long as it is an activity that brings you both equal pleasures.
Start with Yourself
If you are looking for relationship problem advice, keep this important thought in mind – you can’t change someone else. The best place to start solving your problems is to begin to treat your partner how you want to be treated. You may be surprised how he or she responds.
Fight Fair
All relationships, even the healthiest ones, have arguments. The difference between needing relationship problem advice and not, is learning to fight fair. Take the time to really listen, respect each other, and control your emotions. If you feel things getting out of control, take a break and resume the discussion later – but make sure you do get it resolved.
Reach Out and Touch
A common relationship problem with struggling couples is they stop touching. We all possess a biological need to be touched. Reach out and lovingly touch your partner, as often as possible. Hold hangs, hug when parting, touch legs while watching TV.
Bring Back the Fire
Many long term relationships find they lose the spark that first brought them together. You don’t have to accept this as inevitable. The flame can be rekindled. Sexy love notes, simple romantic gifts, and trying new activities together, even exercise can get that heart pumping again.
Accept Emotions
Anger and hurt are real emotions and they can’t just be pushed away. Trying to solve the emotion will not help the situation. It is better to focus on the causes of the emotion instead of alleviating the symptoms.
Relationship Problem Advice vs. Abuse
There is a big gap between problems and abuse – so if you suspect abuse, then it is likely true. If your partner ever makes you feel unsafe or hurts you physically, it is time to get away fast and find help immediately.
Regular Therapy
The value of relationship counseling is it provides you a regular opportunity to sit down and discuss your relationship. You are both accountable to making the relationship work together as a team.
Avoid Waiting
If you feel problems brewing, don’t wait for it to explode. Contacting a relationship counselor early on when you both haven’t built up too much resentment will help the process go faster and smoother. If trying some of the techniques above doesn’t solve your issues, it is time to seek outside help.
