The Importance of Communication in Relationships: Creating a Strong Foundation

Something that I often hear is "relationships are hard". The truth of the matter is that relationships take a lot of time and energy. However, the connotation underneath this saying is that the work being done to maintain a relationships is grueling, drudgery even. I would disagree with this assertion, relationships absolutely require energy but like anything else the choice is the individuals if they put that energy into it. Relationships certainly get more difficult when we stop paying attention to them or if we build our relationship on falsehoods or half-truths.

When we talk about relationships there are numerous areas to focus on. I would suggest to anyone that is considering a long term commitment, whatever that looks like to you, to engage in some form of couples therapy. There is no "right" way to do so. It might be that you attend couples sessions with your religious leader, you might go to a local counselor, attend classes or a workshop. There is no right or wrong way. I just encourage you to do something. Any of these forms of foundation building are going to ask you to consider your future. When we are making such a large commitment in our lives some exploration of what we want and need in that is important.

In these sessions you will be able to explore the values of your partner and yourself. Examine their compatibility and learn to navigate moments when you are out of alignment with one another while determining what is flexible and what is a non-negotiable for you. Taking the time to read some of the literature available on the subject of partnership is beneficial. I would suggest reading The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work by John Gottman, PhD. I would also suggest Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson.

Link for The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work: https://amzn.to/4g6CGe1

Link for Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love https://amzn.to/42oUqyd

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