In this new article you’ll learn how to be a supportive partner.
If you’re looking for ways to support your partner, you probably don’t know where to start. Most people in relationships have similar needs. Your partner is most likely looking for your attention, respect, and encouragement.
So, what can you do to show your partner that you are always available to them? We asked the experts and put together practical advice you can apply to your relationship right away.
How To Be a Supportive Partner
1. Schedule time for your partner.
Giving him time and attention shows him that he is valued. People are busier than ever, so carving out time just for the two of you—not to run errands around the house, run to the stores, or run errands—means a lot. Find time for each other to relax and enjoy each other’s company. As a couple, you will then feel more emotionally connected.
Make a weekly date night your priority. If that’s not an option, try to meet for lunch or breakfast at least once a week. The goal is to find a time that works for everyone.
Engage in activities that you both enjoy. You can go for a run, watch a movie, enjoy some wine, or go swimming in the lake.
2. Make respectful gestures toward them.
To ease your partner’s tension, help them without drawing attention to it. Invisible support involves doing things that help your relationship but are not conspicuous. The benefit of “invisible support” is that your partner appreciates your efforts but doesn’t feel compelled to reciprocate. Here are some kind gestures you can make for him or her:
- When you notice that the oil needs to be changed, do it.
- Next time you go out somewhere, let your partner choose the restaurant.
- Even if you’re the one with the craving, save the last piece of dessert for him.
- Do a task that your partner often complains about.
- If you have children, ask them to make cute cards for your partner.
3. Talk to each other often.
Frequent communication shows that you value your relationship. It is easy to fall into a pattern of not having serious and meaningful interactions. Try to communicate once a week so that you are both interested in each other. You can talk about how you are feeling and how your lives are in general.
For example, you can say, “Hey, it’s been a while since we had coffee and just talked,” or “Do you have time for a quick chat today?” I would just like to talk about our relationship.
SEE ALSO: How To Get Over a Past Relationship: 12 Steps To Move On
4. Find out what your partner needs.
Learn about his or her desires so you can understand or fulfill them. If you have been with your partner for a long time, you may think you know what he or she needs or wants. Instead of making such assumptions, ask him what he needs. He will feel valued, and he will appreciate the fact that you cared enough to find out.
For example, the other person may remark, “I just want to be able to vent about my day.” I don’t expect you to solve my problems; I just want you to listen to me.” or “I need more physical contact.” I am very happy when you come up to me and embrace me or hold my hand. “
5. Experiment with active listening.
Remove any distractions to show the other person that you care. Give your partner your full attention whenever they speak to you (1). Turn off your phone and make eye contact with the speaker. Try not to interrupt until he or she has finished speaking. It may seem simple, but active listening shows that you appreciate what he or she is saying.
If possible, have the conversation in a quiet place so you can hear what your partner is saying.
Revisit what you said to show that you really care. Wait a few days after your partner expresses his or her expectations before asking how things are going. This will show him or her that you have paid attention and that his or her needs are important to you.
6. Include your partner’s point of view.
Resist the impulse to make judgments so your partner knows you accept them. It can be difficult to open up to someone else! Avoiding criticism and trying to understand the other person’s point of view will make them feel appreciated and heard. Don’t think about what you will say in response when you listen. Just listen and accept what they are saying.
This is a talent that takes time to master. If you find yourself interrupting your partner, stop and say something like, “I’m sorry.” “Please continue.”
7. Help each other overcome obstacles.
Remind your loved one that you will overcome difficulties together. Sometimes your companion may feel irritable or lonely. Knowing that you are always available to him or her can be beneficial. This is especially important when he is experiencing difficulties—he will feel more supported knowing that he is not alone.
You can say something encouraging, such as: “I know it seems like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, but you have me by your side.”
SEE ALSO: How To Express Anger In Relationship With 10 Healthy Tips
8. Maintain a healthy work-life balance at home.
Divide tasks so that your partner doesn’t feel overburdened. When partners are convinced that they are the ones doing most of the chores, they often grumble or resent it. If you feel your workload is more balanced, try to do more around the house. You should help without asking, but if you want to communicate, you can sit down and talk about chores.
For example, you can do the grocery shopping and cook dinner on those evenings when the other person wants to go to the gym.
9. Express physical affection
Hug, kiss, or caress your loved one to strengthen your relationship. Physical contact can go a long way towards relieving tension. If your partner has had a rough day, give him a gentle back massage, put your arms around him, or give him a hug. A little tenderness will help him feel appreciated.
Try to incorporate physical affection throughout the day (2), such as touching your partner’s shoulder or patting his or her knee while you talk about your day or sit and watch a movie.
10. Support his or her aspirations and goals.
Allow the other person to feel satisfied with their decisions. It’s hard to be sensitive or do new things, so be optimistic if your partner shares his aspirations with you! Highlight his or her abilities and reassure them that their ambitions are achievable.
If your partner knows that you support him in everything he wants to accomplish, he will likely feel more confident and in control of his life.
11. Show your appreciation
Tell your loved one what you like and appreciate about him or her. Emotional support is similar to reassurance support. It simply means that you respect and adore your partner. Praise and thank him or her for being a part of your life.
Compliments should be specific. Use phrases such as: “Thank you for helping me around the house so I can focus on work” or “You made my siblings feel cared for when they came to visit.” Thank you for your work with my family. “
Thank you for reading this article about how to be a supportive partner and I really hope that you take action my advice.
I wish you good luck and I hope its contents have been a good help to you.