The Importance of Communication with Your Partner
My husband and I have been together for over 12 years. We met when I was only 18, so we’ve been through some major life changes together. Graduating college, living with roommates, finally getting our own place together, adopting dogs, changing jobs, traveling overseas, moving houses, getting married, buying a house, etc.
In this whirlwind of life events, the one thing that remains steadfast is our communication. It’s not always easy, but it’s important to remember that no one is a mind reader. Our advice to newly married couples is always just one thing, communicate.
My husband and I are complete opposites when it comes to personalities. He is extroverted, loves being around lots of people, attending events, hosting parties, any type of gathering really. Meanwhile, I’m introverted, preferring to be in a quiet place reading a book with a few select people. He is confident, a go-getter, alive with passion and much more on the logical side, while I’m also filled with passion, mine is quieter, something I do just for me. I’m also an empath so every day of my life is exploding with emotions.
Even with all those opposites, there are similarities. We have similar passions and moral grounds. We love being active, biking, playing sports, playing board games, watching movies, and traveling. And while all those things are important, the one thing that stands high above everything else, we communicate.
Our communication isn’t perfect and it’s something we’re always working on, but we both know it’s importance. We (try to) never assume what the other might be thinking or feeling. If we’re at a party with friends and something comes up, we step outside and figure it out. We talk to each other. We tell each other everything. We are completely open with each other about our worries, hopes, insecurities, passions, dreams, and moods.
While I know that I’m lucky that my husband is one of the most patient and understanding people I’ve ever met, I do feel that communicating can implement patience, understanding, and compassion into a relationship.
As you begin to communicate more and more, you discover this entirely different perspective that’s right next to you. You begin to put yourself in their shoes before reacting. You would do absolutely anything to make them happy because their happiness is your happiness.
Make sure you take time to think about the qualities in your partner you’re really grateful for. It’s important for your partner to hear that they’re appreciated.
What do you think is the most important part of a relationship?