Oftentimes, it is easy to make assumptions about relationships. We assume that their purpose is to make us feel happy, secure, and content in life. But sometimes those assumptions can be baseless. When feeling unhappy in a relationship, it can take courage and self-reflection to confront difficult emotions and come to terms with our feelings of unhappiness.
We can find ourselves questioning our compatibility with our partner, struggling to communicate effectively, and feeling disconnected. This can lead to an array of lingering doubts as we try to make sense of it all - leaving us feeling guilty, unsure if it is fair to leave our partner, and worrying about the impact of our choice on our partner and family. Anxiety and stress can consume our decision-making process while we seek advice and support to help us navigate our situation.
In these moments, it is important that we take the time to truly understand the source of our unhappiness. Seeking understanding and insight requires honesty, compassion, and patience for ourselves. Our journey of self-inquiry begins by confronting our doubts, being aware of our triggers, and identifying our underlying needs. What are the actions and reactions in the relationship that ignite distress? What previous experiences may be contributing to our current state of unhappiness? The answers to these questions can help us gain clarity surrounding our emotional state and create an actionable plan to move forward.
We are often confronted with the impossible task of putting thoughts and feelings into words. Unsure how to start, we can feel overwhelmed even before bringing our struggles to our partner. Despite this challenge, expressing our emotions openly, without blame or judgement, can create a new environment for understanding and compromise. Even if the conversation is viewed as uncomfortable or difficult, it has the potential to heal hearts and bridge broken gaps in communication.
When feeling happiness and lighter in our relationship, we can easily forget the strain of conflict and disconnect. Contemplating whether or not we are ready to forgive and accept our partner’s differences is difficult, yet sometimes recognition of differences leads to acceptance, admiration, and growth. It can be hard to sit with tension or frustration until a solution can be reached, but doing so can encourage patience, humility, and empathy in both parties.
The only person who can answer the ultimate question - ‘is this relationship healthy for me?’ - is yourself. It is ok to experience doubt and second thoughts within a relationship. In considering our mutual happiness and working through conflict, we are slowly reminded that relationships are things of beauty and comfort. Finding joy instead of worsening negativity helps keep us hopeful and resilient in managing our emotions and passions. We wish to believe in our worthiness and value; our capacity to bloom and foster relationships that bring joy and connection in our lives.
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