Most adult relationships last around four years. However, you want your bond with your current partner to last forever. But obstacles can interfere with that goal. Even so, if you educate yourself on common relationship problems, it becomes a lot easier to avoid them. Read below for some popular issues and helpful tips that will help you navigate the rocky road of romance.
Not Spending Quality Time Together
When was the last time you spent time just talking to your partner? If your answer is I don’t know or I can’t remember, then it’s probably been too long. In a relationship, communication is vital, but so is quality communication.
The importance of quality time in relationships cannot be stressed enough! Quality conversations enhance trust and understanding between two people and help them grow closer together. If you want to have a healthy relationship, make sure that both of you get enough face-to-face interaction with each other every day (and night).
It’s helpful to schedule time together during the week so that you can focus on each other and your relationship. If you have kids, try to schedule this time on a weekend so that they don’t feel neglected.
Avoiding Conflict
Let’s face it: No one likes to fight. But relationship issues are inevitable and can actually be a good thing. It can help you and your partner work through problems, resolve issues and learn new things about yourselves and each other.
You don’t have to talk while you’re upset. This will help you to avoid saying harsh things to your partner. Try to wait until you’re calm and can have a conversation in which both of you listen to each other.
If you find it hard to talk about things that bother you, write your thoughts down on paper first. This can help you figure out what’s bothering you, what your partner did wrong (if anything), how best to approach this issue with them, and how they could make amends if necessary.
Talking Too Much About Past Experiences
Talking too much about the past can be a bad way to bond with someone. While it may seem like an easy way to connect with your partner, it actually makes you more distant from them.
This is because when you’re constantly talking about past experiences, it means that you’re not fully present in your relationship. In order for two people in a relationship to grow closer, they need to focus on each other and what they want for the future rather than just talking about their pasts.
Having Unrealistic Expectations
In the same way that you need to be open to compromise, you also need to be realistic about what your partner can do for you. There’s a difference between having high standards and expecting too much from others.
If you want your partner to always be loving, that’s fine. But if he or she has never been particularly demonstrative in the past, it would be unrealistic for you to suddenly demand kisses every hour just because the two of you are living together.
Instead, settle for something practical. You don’t need kisses every hour on the hour. Getting a few throughout the day should be enough to make you feel loved.
Lack of Trust
A lack of trust can be an enormous source of stress in any relationship. If you don’t trust your partner, they may feel like you’re constantly on edge. That will make them uncomfortable and likely to avoid you.
If you want to feel closer to your partner, try to trust them more. Let them know that you’re not going to judge their actions and that you’ll give them the benefit of the doubt.
For relationships that have a history of infidelity, that can be a challenge. But if you’re committed to fixing a relationship that’s come to mean so much, it’s worth it. It will take time, but you can restore trust in your relationship if you’re both willing to put in the effort and be honest.
Jealousy
Jealousy can be a good thing. It’s a sign of love and passion, and it shows that you care about your partner. However, jealousy can also be destructive if it leads to arguing.
If you’re feeling jealous about something your partner said or did, it’s best to talk about it rather than bottling up those feelings.
No Work-Life Balance
Too many people are letting their jobs ruin their relationships. Many couples find it difficult to spend enough time together. This can lead to resentment and anger.
If the only time you have together is at night, when you’re both exhausted and stressed out from work, something needs to change. This might mean hiring help around the house or asking for part-time hours at work.
Lack of Sex
It’s natural for couples to go through periods where they sleep together less frequently. However, if you’re experiencing sexual frustration, it might be time to talk about it. If you’re both too busy to find time for sex, make plans with each other in advance so that you can make sure everyone has their needs met.
Money Issues
If one person spends more than they earn and can’t get out of debt, this has to be addressed. If one person doesn’t agree with how their partner spends money, they need to talk about it instead of getting mad.
You won’t fix money problems overnight, but if you’re both willing to talk about it, you can find a solution that works for both of you.
Learn How to Avoid Common Relationship Problems
In order to avoid the common relationship problems that can destroy your love life, you need to understand one thing: relationships are work. Maintaining a healthy and happy relationship with someone requires effort from both parties. Sometimes, you just need a push in the right direction.
A relationship coach can help you communicate better, understand what each other needs, and work through disagreements in a healthy way. If you’re prepared to take your love to new heights, contact a relationship coach today. It’s time to stop struggling and start enjoying your relationship again.