RELATIONSHIP TIP OF THE WEEK: Protect Yourself

[Amy Warren, LMHC / WQ Mag Columnist]

Last week, I talked about making sure your negative feelings don’t leak out on your partner. This week’s tip is about how to protect yourself so your partner’s bad day doesn’t become your bad day. When your partner is in a nasty mood, think of shielding yourself so that the negativity doesn’t penetrate you. Think to yourself: “I can comfort him or ask how I can help, but I am not going to allow his bad day to affect me. It’s his issue.” Imagine an invisible shield between you. When you practice this self-protectiveness, it enables you to stay connected to your partner at times when you otherwise might want to disconnect.

Amy Warren is Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Master Certified Relational Life Therapist in private practice. Send your relationship questions to [e-mail],and they will be answered on the website.