What should you do when your partner’s upset?
Mostly, we start troubleshooting before we fully understand the problem. You mean well, but your suggestions only make matters worse, therefore be more like a coach.
Accept your partner’s story and try to understand what they want, even when they don’t know themselves. Learn to be a good listener, and try to see things from their point of view.
Being hugged increases bonding. Thoughtful advice, when it’s specifically requested, can be very helpful.
Stay quiet so your partner can speak. Wait for them to complete each thought before contributing your ideas.
You won’t agree with everything you hear, but your spouse may have a perfectly valid viewpoint. Just that it’s different from yours.
Women also pay more attention to their partner’s behaviour than men, and it’s critical to their happiness, therefore, men who consciously minimise negative interactions with their wives find that they quarrel less and feel closer to one another.
Maybe your spouse just wants to vent. Or you try to move in for a hug, only to discover they’re not in the mood to be touched.
