In the previous blog post, we were looking at what couples in a relationship can do to help themselves when they are going through a tough time. There are three other points, which I will discuss next.
- Be open and honest
One of the most important aspects of a relationship is to have an open and honest communication line between partners. Once you identified possible stressors and agree to start working together on them, then you need to actually do it! Don’t say for example that you will start helping more around the house and then two weeks later fall back into your old habits. If you say something then you need to mean it. Part of this also means that you need to be willing to ask for help when you need it. A relationship is a two way street and you cannot do it on your own. Don’t be afraid to admit your shortcomings and ask for help.
- Review your partnership ‘contract’
Sometimes it is worth reviewing what initially brought you together, and one of the ways to do that is to look at your common values and goals and expectations for each other, and of yourselves in this relationship. Have things changed? Have things shifted; are you not on the same page anymore? Review and rewrite!
- Make a plan
It’s all too well to talk about making a change and dreaming about a better outcome. The real truth lies behind actually making a plan of action and a timeline of when and how things are going to get better. You’ve got to keep checking on yourselves and seeing that you are actually moving forward!
In conclusion, to get the best possible outcome, a couple need to have open communication between them and admit and talk openly about the issues they are facing and make a plan to move forward.
Dana Scicluna Azar is a relationship and sex advisor at willingness. She offers therapy to both individuals and couples. She can be contacted on dana@willingness.com.mt. You can visit her profile on: https://zme.tec.mybluehost.me/willingnessmt/team/dana-azar-scicluna/