LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) people have always been known to face discrimination due to their sexual orientation.
Nowadays, they have greater rights and access to jobs, public life, housing, education, medical services, etc., which has led them to be more accepted into society than before. With these privileges come responsibilities and expectations that may put pressure on LGBT couples and make it difficult for them to manage relational stress while fulfilling operational duties and mission requirements. In this article, I will discuss how LGBT couples can manage relational stress while maintaining successful careers, missions, and daily operations.
One way that LGBT couples can minimize relationship stress is through open communication. Open communication means sharing feelings, thoughts, desires, worries, and fears without holding back. This allows each partner to understand the other's perspective and work together to solve problems. It also ensures that both partners are clear about expectations and boundaries regarding personal and professional responsibilities.
One partner might want to spend more time working or pursuing career goals, while the other wants to prioritize family time. By communicating openly, they can find a balance between their individual needs and shared goals.
LGBT couples should schedule quality time together regularly. Quality time involves activities that are enjoyable and relaxing for both partners, such as going out for dinner or watching movies at home. Couples who do not spend enough time together risk feeling disconnected and unappreciated by their partner, leading to resentment and tension. Scheduling regular date nights helps keep the spark alive in the relationship and creates a sense of intimacy and connection.
LGBT couples should be flexible with their schedules and priorities. This means being willing to compromise and adjust plans when necessary.
If one partner has an important meeting that takes up most of their day, the other may need to take on household chores or errands instead. Being flexible also means understanding that sometimes mission requirements will come first and making sacrifices for the team's success.
LGBT couples should seek support from friends, family members, or counselors when needed. Talking to others outside of the couple can provide valuable insight into problem-solving strategies and help them see things from different perspectives. Support groups or therapy sessions can also offer a safe space to discuss issues without judgment or shame.
Managing relational stress requires effort and commitment from both partners. LGBT couples must communicate openly, schedule quality time together, be flexible with their schedules and priorities, and seek outside support when necessary. These steps can help ensure that LGBT couples maintain successful careers while keeping their relationships strong and fulfilling.
How do LGBT couples manage relational stress while fulfilling operational duties and mission requirements?
Research suggests that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military couples face unique challenges when it comes to managing relationship stress due to their sexual orientation and gender identity, which can lead to difficulties in meeting both personal and professional demands (Mackie et al. , 2016).