A List of Ways to Be a More Supportive Partner (Part 2)

Hello World - Here’s to another “Almost There Thursday!” So being in a relationship is rewarding, fulfilling and all things wonderful but it’s also hard work, right? Anyone who is invested in a relationship probably says, every so often, “I could do better with that.” And, a lot of times, the “that” is being a little more supportive of your significant other. When you get to a certain level of comfort in a relationship, we tend to slip in terms of the attention, time and support you give to the person that’s special to you. Then there’s the domino-effect that follows, one person feels slighted or neglected and, in turn, out of spite or inadvertently discontinues the emotional maintenance needed to keep things healthy . . . and then the fights ensue. A lot of those spats tend to stem from something larger than you forgetting to make dinner reservations and come to surface after the explosion. And one is left to question, “why, didn’t you just tell me that? I can’t read your mind!” Which is often countered with “I did but you didn’t seem to care!” But if you can avoid these upheavals by being a little more attentive and a little more supportive, why not? Paying attention goes a long way, so remind yourself to stay on your toes!

Patience is Key - right, we all have bad days and sometimes your loved one comes at you at the wrong time on the wrong day. No need to unleash your pent-up aggression on the person you care about. Be cool and convey that, “this is not the time.” In other cases, you could just not be in the mood to hear him/her vent about the same things he/she vents about time after time. Give yourself a second, tell him/her that you need a moment, and go wrap your brain around listening.

Reconnect - a lot of times, we tend to get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives we neglect our personal lives and the people in it. Sometimes a night without outside distractions from the television, computer and cell phone is powerfully refreshing. Take a walk or enjoy a quiet dinner with your loved one, discuss the day and enjoy being in each other’s space. Sounds corny, right? But it goes a long way! Just sayin'

Take Initiative - sometime people just need a little push and support to really pursue a hobby or interest. For example, if your loved one loves to cook and rants a raves about wanting to learn more about it, do the research, find a class or workshop and extend the information. A simple, “hey, I thought you might enjoy something like this” goes a long way. Means you’re listening and supportive of their endeavors. Positive begets more positive!

Listen Closely - they say that listening is the lost art, so apparently that means we could all do a lot more of it! It’s one thing to hear what’s being said but listening is completely different. A lot of times, you don’t even have to say a word in return if you’ve listened close enough and sometimes a response is unnecessary and unwanted when you’ve devoted your attention to the one who’s in need of an ear.

Refrain From Fussing - we all go against each other’s greater instincts from time to time and sometimes unsuccessfully so. However, the last thing anyone needs to hear after an epic fail is “I told you so. None of this would’ve happened if you had just listened. See, didn’t I tell you?” Don’t do that! Even though an “I told you so” is in order, it can wait . . . forever! Listening and an, “I’m sorry it didn’t work out but we’ll get through it” kind of attitude is far more encouraging than a fuss bucket!

Celebrate Milestones - who cares what it is, celebrate it! It could be something as simple as making a monthly goal at work, completing a marathon or shedding some pounds! Recognize the results and celebrate them. It doesn’t have to be over the top, a few balloons and roses or a home-cooked meal and card would do the trick. A small token of recognition always resonates with the person on the receiving end!

In relationships, the old saying, “little things mean a lot” still rings true and could really smooth out those rocky patches every couple encounters from time to time.

What are your thought, bloggers? Please share them!I love feedback so please comment below.