Relationship
Things to keep you from giving up on each other
From time to time, things may get a little difficult. You might not see a way out, and want to give up. You’ve been through so much and seen so much that you’ve lost the fight in you. But it is during these times that you need to find a reason to push through, because something significantly better awaits you at the other side of this situation.
Even if you think that you don’t have it in you to deal with something, and that nothing can be done, here are a few things that might be able to give you the push you need:
We all want things to be easy for us. And even though as tempting as it is, you need to make tough choices and live with the consequences. Be it any aspect of your life, the right thing to do will always prove to be the hardest.
In order to save ourselves from adversity, when the going gets tough, we try to convince ourselves that nothing should have to be this difficult. When in reality, nothing good ever comes easy.
You’ve made it this far
We’ve all had those days where you’re feeling so defeated that you’re entirely convinced you won’t be able to make it. Maybe if you reminded yourself that you’re seeing this day only because you’ve managed to live through such days in the past, you might have some hope. If you could get through them, you can surely get through this one as well.
Everything happens for a reason
If things aren’t going the way they should and nothing you do seems right, just remember that everything happens for a reason. Even if it doesn’t make sense in that moment of time, it will unfold eventually. Your choices, even if they appear to be wrong in the present circumstances, are setting you off in the right direction. You need to believe that everything will fall into place in due time.
Choose your response to pain
There is no escaping pain. Somewhere, sometime or somehow you’re going to be faced with it. Pain generally instigates negative thoughts, which in turn worsens the situation. You allow yourself to wallow in it and hence don’t even look for a way out since you’ve led yourself to believe that there isn’t one.
You can control how you process your pain. It may not be easy or quick, but it’s doable. Hold the negative thoughts at bay, focus on finding a solution instead.
keep moving forward
Be it one tiny step at a time, just keep moving forward. You can’t allow yourself to be stuck in the same situation just because of your fears. There is no reward without any risk. Believe in yourself, and make the difficult choices.
Don’t let anything hold you back
When you’ve finally convinced yourself to challenge yourself, don’t let any sort of setbacks keep you from moving forward. They are just minor hiccups. Sometimes you might not get it right in the first go, but you need to keep going. You alone have the power to hold yourself back and nothing/no one else.
source: gistping.com
Navigating social media boundaries as a couple can be a tricky task. With the constant access to our loved ones’ lives that social media provides, it’s important to establish clear boundaries to ensure a healthy and trusting relationship. Here are some tips to help couples manage social media use.
1. Have an Open and Honest Conversation
The first step in setting boundaries on social media is to talk openly and honestly with your partner about how you both feel regarding social media usage. These conversations can be challenging but are essential for maintaining understanding and trust.
2. Be Specific
When discussing boundaries, be specific about the behaviour that bothers you and what you would like to change.
- Instead of saying, “You spend too much time on social media,” try:
“I feel neglected when you are on your phone for extended periods during our conversations. Can we set a limit on phone usage during quality time together?”
3. Be Considerate
Respect and understand your partner’s point of view. The goal is not to control each other, but to create a healthy balance that strengthens the relationship.
4. Agree on Social Media Etiquette
Social media etiquette involves setting clear guidelines for how you and your partner will interact online. This may include:
- Whether you will follow each other on social media.
- What kinds of photos or posts are acceptable.
- How to interact with friends, family, or others online.
Privacy is key in these discussions.
5. Respect Each Other’s Privacy
Respecting privacy is one of the most critical aspects of social media boundaries:
- Do not snoop on your partner’s social media accounts.
- Avoid sharing personal information about them.
- Don’t post pictures or updates they may be uncomfortable with.
6. Don’t Use Social Media as a Measure of Your Relationship
Social media often highlights only the “best moments” of relationships. Avoid comparing your relationship to others online.
- Focus on your unique relationship and its successes.
- Remember that every relationship faces its own challenges and joys.
Conclusion
Setting boundaries on social media is crucial for a healthy, happy relationship. Key factors include:
- Open and honest communication.
- Respect for each other’s privacy.
- Avoiding comparisons using social media as a benchmark.
By prioritising these practices, couples can strengthen trust, intimacy, and emotional connection while navigating the digital world together.
Source: Arkansas Relationship Counselling Centre
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In the realm of romantic relationships, vulnerability and openness are often misconstrued as signs of weakness. However, research in psychology and relationship counselling suggests that embracing vulnerability can be a powerful catalyst for deepening emotional intimacy and strengthening bonds.
Vulnerability involves sharing our innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires with our partner, making us susceptible to potential hurt or rejection. Yet, it is precisely this openness that allows us to build trust, foster empathy, and create a sense of safety in our relationships.
When couples prioritise vulnerability, they often experience a profound shift in their relationship dynamics. For instance, a couple I counselled who were struggling to connect after a recent move found that sharing their fears and anxieties with each other helped them rebuild their emotional intimacy. By being open about their struggles, they were able to support each other and strengthen their bond.
Benefits of Vulnerability and Openness
- Deeper Understanding: By sharing our thoughts and feelings, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our partner.
- Increased Empathy: When we are open about our struggles, our partner is more likely to respond with compassion and support.
- Resilience: Vulnerability helps us develop coping mechanisms and learn to navigate challenges together.
- Authentic Connection: By being our authentic selves, we create a sense of mutual understanding and connection.
Cultivating Vulnerability
So, how can we cultivate vulnerability in our relationships? Here are some practical tips:
- Start Small: Begin by sharing your thoughts and feelings in low-stakes situations, like discussing a book or movie. Gradually share more personal aspects of yourself as you become comfortable.
- Practice Active Listening: When your partner shares their vulnerabilities, respond with empathy and understanding. This helps create a safe space for open communication.
- Be Present: Focus on the present moment and let go of distractions. This will help you stay engaged and responsive to your partner’s needs.
- Show Appreciation: Express gratitude for your partner’s vulnerability and celebrate their courage in sharing their thoughts and feelings.
In many successful relationships, couples have reported that regular “check-ins” or meaningful conversations help them stay connected and build a stronger bond. By prioritising vulnerability and openness, couples are better able to address life’s challenges together, fostering a deeper sense of connection and intimacy.
Vulnerability and openness are essential components of a healthy, fulfilling relationship. By embracing these qualities, we can build stronger, more resilient bonds with our partners.
As we navigate the complexities of relationships, let us remember that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength that can bring us closer to ourselves and our loved ones.
To be continued…
Source: Excerpts from “COURTSHIP MATTERS: Keys to a Fulfilling Lasting Marriage” by Rev. Counselor Prince Offei
(Lecturer, Published Author, Mental Health Professional, and Marriage Counsellor)
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Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC Counsellor Training Institute)
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