How To Be a Supportive Partner To Your Loved One: 11 Tips
In this new article, you’ll find out how to be a supportive partner.
If you are searching for ways to support your partner, you may not know where to start. Most people in relationships have the same needs. Your partner is most certainly seeking attention, respect, and encouragement from you.
So what can you do to show your partner that you’re all the time there for them? We asked the experts and put together practical advice that you can instantly apply to your relationship.
How to Become a Supporting Partner
1. Schedule time for your partner.
Giving him time and attention shows him that he’s appreciated. People are busier than ever, so making time for just the two of you—not running errands around the house, to the shop, or running errands—is very significant. Find time for one another to relax and enjoy one another’s company. As a couple, you’ll then feel more emotionally connected.
Make weekly date nights your precedence. If that’s not an option, try to meet for lunch or breakfast at least once a week. The goal is to find a time that works for everybody.
Engage in activities that you both enjoy. You can go for a run, watch a movie, enjoy some wine or swim in the lake.
2. Make a respectful gesture towards them.
To defuse your partner’s tension, do them a favor without attracting their attention. Unseen support involves doing things that help your relationship but do not stand out. The benefit of “invisible support” is that your partner appreciates your efforts but does not feel compelled to reciprocate. Here are some nice gestures you can do for him:
- When you realize that the oil needs to be changed, do it.
- The next time you go out, let your partner choose the restaurant.
- Even if you are the one with the cravings, save the last dessert for him.
- Do tasks that your partner often complains about.
- If you have kids, ask them to make cute cards for your partner.
3. Talk to one another often.
Frequent communication shows that you value your relationship. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of not having serious, significant interactions. Try to communicate once a week so that both of you have an interest in one another. You can speak about how you are feeling and how your life is going in general.
For example, you could say, “Hey, it’s been a while since we’ve had coffee and a chat,” or “Do you have time for a quick chat today?” I just want to speak about our relationship.
4. Find out what your partner needs.
Learn about his desires so you can understand or fulfill them. If you have been with your partner for a long time, you may feel like you know what he needs or wants. Instead of making assumptions like that, ask him what he needs. He’ll feel valued, and he’ll appreciate the indisputable fact that you cared enough to find out.
For example, another person might comment, “I just wanted to vent about my day.” I do not expect you to solve my problem; I just want you to listen to me.” or “I need more physical contact.” I really like it when you come up to me and hug me or hold my hand. “
5. Experiment with active listening.
Remove all distractions to show others that you care. Give your partner your full attention every time they talk to you (1). Turn off your phone and make eye contact with the speaker. Try not to interrupt until he has finished speaking. It may seem simple, but active listening shows that you value what he has to say.
If possible, have the conversation in a quiet place so you can hear what your partner has to say.
Review what you said to show that you really care. Wait a few days after your partner expresses his expectations before asking how things are. This will show him that you are paying attention and that his needs are important to you.
6. Include your partner’s point of view.
Resist the urge to make judgments so your partner knows you accept them. It can be hard to open up to other people! Avoiding criticism and trying to understand other people’s points of view will make them feel valued and heard. Don’t think about what you will say in response as you listen. Just listen and accept what they have to say.
This is a talent that takes time to master. If you find yourself interrupting your partner, stop and say something like, “I’m sorry.” “Please continue.”
7. Help each other overcome obstacles.
Remind your loved ones that you will overcome difficulties together. Sometimes your partner may feel irritated or lonely. Knowing that you are always available for him can be beneficial. This is especially important when she’s having a hard time—she’ll feel more supported knowing she’s not alone.
You can say something encouraging, like: “I know it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, but you have me by your side.”
8. Maintain a healthy work-life balance at home.
Divide the tasks so that your partner does not feel burdened. When partners believe they are doing most of the work, they often grumble or get annoyed. If you feel like your workload is more balanced, try doing more things around the house. You have to help without asking, but if you want to communicate, you can sit down and talk about assignments.
For example, you could shop for groceries and cook dinner on a night when other people want to hit the gym.
9. Express physical affection
Hug, kiss or caress your loved ones to strengthen your relationship. Physical contact can go a long way toward relieving tension. If your partner has had a rough day, give him a gentle back massage, hug him, or cuddle him. A little tenderness will help her feel valued.
Try to incorporate physical affection throughout the day (2), such as touching your partner’s shoulder or patting his knee while you talk about your day or sit down and watch a movie.
10. Support aspirations and goals.
Let others be satisfied with their decisions. It’s hard to be sensitive or do new things, so be optimistic if your partner shares his aspirations with you! Highlight their abilities and convince them that their ambitions can be achieved.
If your partner knows that you support him in everything he wants to achieve, he will likely feel more confident and in control of his life.
11. Show your appreciation
Tell your loved one what you like and appreciate about them. Emotional support is similar to reassurance support. It means you respect and admire your partner. Praise and thank him for being a part of your life.
Compliments must be specific. Use phrases like: “Thanks for helping me around the house so I can focus on work” or “You make my siblings feel cared for when they come to visit.” Thank you for your cooperation with my family. “
Thank you for reading this article on how to be a supportive partner and I actually hope you take action on my advice.
I wish you good luck and that I hope that its content has been a good help to you.