5 Common Relationship Mistakes and How You Can Avoid Them
Even the best relationships have hurdles and obstacles to overcome. We are all imperfect people, which means we are all bound to make mistakes in our relationships.
Do you feel like you are making the same handful of mistakes over and over in your relationships? While some mistakes are unforeseeable and truly unavoidable, other relationship mistakes are common and can be avoided with practice.
Here are five of the more common relationship mistakes and how they can be avoided.
1. Expecting Perfection from Your Partner or Loved One
Many of us tend to be perfectionists by nature. As such, we probably hold ourselves to incredibly high standards and expect a lot from our accomplishments. When we expect this level of perfection from our loved ones, however, it is a recipe for disaster.
Your partner or loved one is bound to make mistakes. Save yourself—and the other person—a load of heartache by accepting that they are human and cannot be expected to be perfect. Have a healthier outlook and realistic expectations for the people in your life, including yourself!
2. Neglecting Your Individuality
When you spend a lot of time with a good friend or a romantic partner, it can become easy to lose yourself and your identity.
One of the most common relationship mistakes people make is neglecting their individuality and forgetting to leave time for their interests and hobbies. People who are in happy, healthy relationships spend time alone and away from their loved ones, and they do not depend on those loved ones as their only source of happiness.
To avoid neglecting your individuality, schedule at least a few hours each week for activities you enjoy and focus on getting enough “me” time through naps, reading a book, taking a bath, or working on a personal project.
3. Obsessively Doubting Your Relationship
If you are in a romantic relationship, it may be normal to have occasional doubts from time to time. If your thoughts are becoming obsessive or causing you to constantly question your partner, however, this can be damaging to your relationship.
Your partner has made a commitment to you by choosing to be with you. Jealousy, mistrust, or skepticism will only erode the bond you have built. Rather than doubting your relationship or questioning your partner’s intentions, decide instead to trust your partner and give them the freedom to live their own life.
4. Spending Too Much Time in Front of Screens
It is easy to become too reliant on our screens. Between our phones, televisions, computers, and tablets, it seems there is always a device—or three—in front of us.
Be careful not to sacrifice quality time with your partner or loved one for time with your screen. A TV show, video game, or app can wait if there is something more important to be doing.
Put down the device, and work on really being present when you are with your loved one. Make them feel truly loved and understood by showing them that they are your top priority.
5. Not Communicating With Your Loved One
None of your loved ones can read your mind, and it is unfair to expect them to try.
People in relationships commonly make the mistake of not communicating their needs and expecting their partner to intuitively know what is on their mind. When communication stops, however, the relationship likewise stops thriving.
Instead of giving your partner the silent treatment, clearly state what you are thinking and how you are feeling. Be direct, and do not be afraid to ask for what you need. Likewise, be open to accepting communication from your partner.
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If you are struggling to communicate in your relationships, I may be able to help. Contact me today to learn more about relationship coaching and what it can do for you.