No one wants to spend hours sifting through records, only to finally place one down on the turntable and have it be broken. Understanding your needs and boundaries is one thing, but knowing how to express them so your partner can receive and hear them is a whole other mountain to climb.
Getting clear on what your needs and boundaries are is the first step in effectively communicating them to your partner.
Although it may feel awkward at first, sometimes scheduling a time to discuss relational matters can help both partners come into conversation with a more open mindset. Therefore, allowing one partner to be better prepared to receive and listen to the other partner’s needs.
Then, allowing your partner time and space to digest your needs can help alleviate the pressure to form a specific outcome. Everyone responds in different ways, so it may take your partner longer to evaluate whether they are able to meet your needs while also maintaining integrity for their own autonomy and boundaries.
Once both partners have clearly communicated, another check-in may be helpful to see if your needs are being met and that they still align with the relationship for both partners. Needs and boundaries are constantly changing, so it’s perfectly normal to reevaluate and check in with your partner. If you’re finding it challenging to voice your needs, therapists like Angela and Ashley at An Elegant Mind Counselling can guide you in building stronger communication with your partner. Our Couples Therapy services are designed to help partners learn effective ways to articulate needs and boundaries with compassion and clarityCheck out our blog on Proactive Relationship Communication: The State of the Union Meeting for another practical way couples can strengthen their connection. Healthy communication takes practice, and the right support can make a world of difference. Contact us today or Book now to start creating a more connected and fulfilling relationship.
Blog post written by Yasmine Ross, Certified Relationship Coach and Content Writer at An Elegant Mind Counselling in Vancouver