This is a recurring question that worries many, but according to psychologists, the answer is much simpler than we think. There are many myths surrounding the perfect relationship, but in reality there is no such thing as a perfect relationship. It is merely an idealized and elusive concept.
Even in long-lasting and successful relationships, there are issues, challenges and disagreements that need to be dealt with and faced. But relationship experts say there’s one key to any successful relationship: honest communication.
Conversation as the key to mutual understanding
Communication is the stable foundation of a long-term relationship, and it can be said that honest communication is essential for maintaining a happy and lasting relationship. Suppressed emotions and unspoken secrets only create tension in both parties involved, which eventually leads to the fact that the people living in a relationship slowly drift apart. Conversations allow both parties to share their feelings, thoughts and desires, promoting mutual understanding and strengthening the relationship of trust with their partner.
As mentioned earlier, every relationship has difficulties that we have to deal with. An honest conversation is the first step in resolving disagreements. In a relationship, it is very important to be able to talk to each other openly and to say honest words, because without these we can never really know what the other party thinks, what they want, or even what hurts or worries them. Open dialogue allows both parties’ concerns or grievances to surface. During an honest conversation, it is very important that both parties in the relationship listen to the other without reservation and speak honestly about their feelings and thoughts. Without mutual empathy and understanding, a happy, long-term relationship simply won’t be sustainable.
Calm conflict resolution
If a conflict arises in our relationship, the first step is to approach the problem calmly. Sit down with your partner and try to discuss the issue in detail. Instead of focusing solely on our own grievances, listen carefully to the other person’s point of view. Ask him why he disagrees with you and share with him how you see the situation. Efforts should be made for both parties to express honestly the pain, bitterness or anger that the particular hurt or problem has caused. If we are angry with the other person or feel hurt, instead of immediately raising our voice or starting an argument, sit down and explain to him how his actions affected us and why he caused pain or hurt us.
The role of reciprocity in conversations
The conversation should always be two-way, it is necessary that both parties living in a relationship patiently listen to each other and try to understand what the other is saying. Without empathy, conversations simply become meaningless. Therefore, let us not only focus on our own opinion, but also try to fully understand the other person’s point of view. Expressing deep attention and empathy allows us to understand each other better, strengthening the emotional bond in the long run. Empathy helps us to see things not only from our own point of view, but also from the other’s point of view, and to understand the other’s point of view more easily.
Regular and honest communication raises the relationship to a higher level and deepens the intimacy of the relationship. When we honestly share our feelings and thoughts with our partner, we strengthen the bond of trust between us.
Difficulty speaking
The initial conversations often start difficult and slow, expressing our thoughts is not easy, and we may be a little afraid to open up completely to the other person. Over time, however, these fears should disappear, and honest conversations should not cause us anxiety or fear, but rather be comforting.
It’s good if conversations become routine after a while between people in relationship. But let’s also note that, in usually, the frequency of conversations depends to a large extent on the personalities of the people in the relationship. However, psychologists agree that over time it should become natural to discuss everything with each other, be it problems or joyful things and events.
Lack of understanding
It’s surprisingly common for people in a relationship to find that they can’t really talk to their partner. Either because they are simply too different and see the world completely differently, have different acceptable standards, or because their partner does not treat them as equals. Recognizing the latter case is relatively simple, albeit painful. If during a conversation you feel and notice that your partner does not see you as an equal and is not willing to listen, he just insists on his own truth, then you have to ask yourself: “Is he really the right partner for me?” You will probably know the answer and don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself because the key to happiness lies in mutual love and acceptance. A similar situation is when your partner is willing to have a conversation with you or initiate a conversation, but then he doesn’t keep his promises and only uses the conversations to make you feel guilty or attack you with his words.
And if your partner wants to argue and fight instead of talking, ask yourself the above important question. And remind yourself that everyone deserves a happy and peaceful life, including you! 😊
