By Joni BoydTuesday 12 Dec 2023Salt 106.5 WeekendsRelationshipsReading Time: 2 minutes

Being a united force can help couples maintain their relationship through life’s ups and downs. Relationship expert and neuropsychotherapist Joanne Wilson says there are three important things couples can do to help make sure this is true for them.

“You pair up with someone because usually they are quite different to you,” Joanne says. “It’s really exciting and quirky at the start and then we wind on a few years, and it can be quite grating. So, make sure you spend more time in the mindset of being an inquisitive information gatherer about your partner.”

When both parties engage an inquisitive information gatherer mindset, the relationship is not only presenting a united force – but it becomes a force to be reckoned with!

1. Maintain respect and kindness

Couples who maintain respect and kindness towards each other even when they’re not getting along, are leaps ahead. By displaying integrity and character when you’re at home and by treating your partner with the same respect with which you treat others, you’re making strides towards having a united front.

2. Prioritise emotional intimacy

Ensuring that you’re deeply connected to your partner by displaying emotional attentiveness is vital. Commit to having a daily time to connect by setting aside 15 minutes to sit down together and have some good quality conversations.

3. Get to know your partner

We can get into a habit of focusing on what’s ‘wrong’ with our partner, or what they could be doing better. Instead, investigate your partner. Find out about all the things they do well and be sure to delve into any feedback they may provide instead of being defensive.

By paying attention to these aspects of your relationship, you’re well on your way to being a united force!

Listen to the full conversation in the player above.

For more from Joanne Wilson tune in each Saturday from 12pm or find more from The Relationship Rejuvenator online.

Feature image: Photo by Canva Pro