For example, if your partner is talking about their day at work, you might say, “I see that you’re frustrated because your boss doesn’t appreciate you. ” Your partner might need extra support if they’re struggling. If your partner is going through a rough patch, be sure to offer your unlimited support to help them feel better.
This can mean that saying “thank you” and being specific, writing them a love note, or just taking the time to acknowledge positive behavior. If you never acknowledge all of the nice things your partner does for you, they might think you’re taking advantage of them.
If you don’t talk about the things that are bothering you, then you’re likely to be passive aggressive toward your partner, which is also not very respectful.
For instance, if you need more alone time than your partner does, you can compromise by setting aside a few days of the week to spend together and a few days of the week to spend apart. When it comes to making smaller decisions, such as where to eat, you may be better off just taking turns.
For example, maybe you want your partner to start handling more chores around the house. Sit down with them and say, “I feel like I’ve been handling the majority of the housework, and I don’t think that it’s fair. I need us to start splitting the chores evenly so I can stop feeling resentful. ”
A good apology looks like: “I’m really sorry that I didn’t call you when I knew I was going to be late. It was an error in judgement, and I know it made you worried. ” Of course, actions speak louder than words. You should not only say you’re sorry, but make a real effort not to do whatever you did again.
Even if you don’t quite understand it or you don’t think it’s fun, you should still try to be supportive.
Respecting your partner’s privacy is crucial to a successful relationship. Don’t think that you have the right to snoop through your partner’s phone or computer just because you’re dating. This goes for sexual boundaries, too. When your partner says “no,” back off from doing anything physical right away.
Instead of being condescending or mean when you don’t agree, focus on phrasing it with “I” language, such as “I understand why you would see it that way…” or, “I just don’t think that’s the most suitable option right now…” Remember that how you say things can be just as important as what you say. Remember that if you start by being aggressive and angry, your partner will be much less likely to share their ideas or to compromise.
This includes things like where you went last night, who you were with, and who you’re texting. Even if you think your partner might not like it, it will be a lot worse if they find out you lied. Of course, there are times when a little white lie can’t hurt. Maybe your partner bought a new shirt and you just can’t stand it, but you say you like it anyway.
For instance, maybe you like to skate but it’s not really your partner’s thing. You can head out to the skatepark with your friends while your partner does something else.
Your friends and family members don’t love your partner the way that you do, so they can harbor negative feelings toward them more than you can. Be sure to tell your friends about the good stuff your partner does, too. If your partner told you anything in confidence, don’t talk about it with your friends and family. [13] X Research source
If you’re out and about and you see someone attractive, just glance at them and keep on walking by. Attractive people exist whether you’re in a relationship or not, but that doesn’t mean you have to check them out.
As a rule of thumb, ask yourself if you would treat a best friend that way. For instance, you wouldn’t tell your best friend that they’re a failure just because they missed class one time. Become your own best friend and try to be kind to yourself.
