Checking in with your Partner

I love to share new ideas on how to strengthen a relationship and I heard one today. I feel this is a great idea simply because women use so many more words than men. We also get on the phone or email to exchange feelings with many people. Men, not so much. Thus, when you want to get a conversation going or just to check in with your partner, this idea might work.

Today, I heard a good, nonthreatening way to check in with your partner. One caveat though.....please don't try this unless and until you get their undivided attention. Ask them, on a scale of 1-10, how happy are you with life, our relationship, etc. This number may give you some basis to begin a deeper conversation. In the initial query, just accept the answer as the number is given. Ask again in a few weeks. Does your partner, in turn, ask you the questions? If not, why not? What you want to establish is a relationship where one can honestly express how one feels without judgement.

If you have accomplished this, please email be at bstern101@yahoo.com and tell me what you did you strengthen your relationship.

Conversation within a relationship often deals with "things" and not "feelings". It's far easier to talk about your day at work, the kids, other people you know, then to thread into the dangerous arena of "feelings". Give it a try because checking in with your partner can reap real knowledge and rewards.

(Thanks Kathy)