RELATIONSHIP TIP OF THE WEEK: He' s Really Trying to Make Things Better

[Amy Warren, LMHC / WQ Mag Columnist]

When your partner speaks to you about something he is unhappy about in your relationship, he isn’t trying to make the relationship worse. In actuality, he is trying to make your relationship better by speaking about the problem. Although since he may not be well-versed in how to speak cherishingly and relationally, it may come across as anger or sound like a complaint or criticism to your ears. But, instead of reacting with anger or defensiveness, let your guard down, look at it differently – as the attempt that it is to repair something in your relationship.

When your view changes, so does your response. When your remember that it would be pretty crazy for your partner to say something to intentionally damage your relationship, and that no matter how ineloquent his delivery of the message may be, he’s really trying to make things better, you’ll be amazed at the difference in the outcome.

Amy Warren is Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Master Certified Relationship Counselor in private practice. Email your relationship questions to [e-mail].