The topic you have selected is an intriguing one that can bring about a lot of interest in people who are in love. In fact, it also has a great impact on their relationship status. Attraction may be seen as one of the things that keep lovers together for long but what happens when there's a change in this feeling between partners after a while? What does it mean to negotiate such feelings without breaking down your partner's emotional wellbeing?
It is important to note that attraction changes over time especially when couples stay together for long periods. This change comes in different forms like physical appearance, behavioral traits, interests, and personalities. These changes can affect how partners feel towards each other. Sometimes they make them move apart from each other while others pull them closer. Negotiating these feelings becomes essential to avoid a breakup between the two partners. Here are ways couples can go about it;
Negotiations begin when you recognize that something is wrong in your relationship. When you see that there's a noticeable change in the way you or your partner behaves or looks, then it's time to address it. Talk to each other honestly about the situation and find out if both of you are comfortable with it or not. If one person is fine with the change while the other is not then it means there's a problem that needs to be resolved.
One partner might start putting on weight which makes the other uncomfortable or one partner develops a disability. The sooner you talk about it the better. This will help you get solutions faster before tension builds up.
Communication is key to any successful relationship. You have to ensure that all information flows freely between the two partners. Couples should not bottle up their feelings because it leads to misunderstandings. Communication can be made possible through various mediums like conversations, text messages, calls, or even notes. There should also be an environment whereby everyone feels free to share whatever they want without fear of being judged.
Avoid assumptions
Assumptions lead to more problems than solving them. Assume nothing but always ask questions to know what the situation is. Do not assume that your partner hates you for some reasons or that they don't love you anymore. You need to ask questions so that you get answers and not just guess. Don't jump into conclusions before getting all the facts. A couple should come together and try to make things right by avoiding assumptions and making false accusations.
Do not hold grudges
When couples negotiate changes in attraction over long periods, they may end up holding grudges against their partners for real or imagined offenses.
This is not the best approach since it creates distance between them. Instead of keeping records of wrongs done to each other, forgive each other and move forward. Holding onto past mistakes doesn't solve anything as it only causes more harm than good.
It's important to understand that no one is perfect and neither are relationships. There will be moments when everything might not go as planned and this does not mean there's something wrong with anyone. People change every day and their needs differ from time to time. It's essential to learn to adjust to these changes so that your relationship does not break down.
Compromise and sacrifice
If you can't meet the expectations of your partner due to a particular reason like age, health condition, etc., then let him/her know. Make compromises where necessary and be willing to sacrifice some aspects for the sake of the relationship. This way both parties feel satisfied even if some things have to change. Avoid being too stubborn about your feelings because it will lead to conflict which hurts both of you. Be open-minded and ready to give up on some personal desires if need be.
Find ways to spice up things
Spicing things up is another great way of dealing with changes in attraction over a period without compromising emotional stability. You can do this through various means like going out on dates, trying new things together, exploring your sexuality, or just having fun. These actions help rekindle the flames that were once strong in the beginning.
Negotiating changes in attraction between couples is important for the survival of any relationship. They should not ignore such issues but address them early enough before they get worse. Communication, understanding, forgiveness, and sacrifices are key ingredients towards making this work.
How do couples negotiate changes in attraction over long periods without compromising emotional stability?
One way that couples can navigate changing levels of attraction is by engaging in open communication about their feelings and needs. It is important for each partner to be able to express themselves honestly and without fear of judgment from their partner. This may involve discussing what has changed within each individual that has affected their attraction towards one another as well as exploring ways to rekindle the passion that was once present in the relationship.