It Takes Two to Make a Thing Go Wrong

You have heard the saying, “It takes two to tango” ? Well, it definitely applies to relationships. Relationships are a continuous process that requires the ongoing commitment and effort of both partners to keep going.

At this point, we must also acknowledge that there are situations where one partner bears the brunt of the blame for ruining a good thing. More on that later.

However, In many cases, relationships don’t just crumble because of one dramatic event, but due to a series of small missteps that add up. For instance, it could be a lack of communication, where both partners assume the other knows what they want or need, leading to frustration. It can also be partners taking each other for granted and forgetting to show appreciation for all the little things.

Both partners can contribute to the growing distance that, without their realizing it, causes the relationship to deteriorate.

What about when one partner goes rogue?

As we have already acknowledged there are definitely exceptions. These are when one partner’s actions severely, negatively impact the relationship and make it difficult or impossible for the other to maintain the bond.

Expectedly, cheating, addiction, and abuse (physical, emotional, or psychological), are understandably dealbreakers in many relationships even if the other partner is an angel. Naturally, in these cases, the priorities will be safety and healing, and not trying to fix something that’s essentially broken.

Recognize the patterns and take responsibility for your part.

Are you constantly critical? Do you withdraw instead of communicating? Are you showing appreciation for the little things? Are you making time for your partner? There is always room for improvement, and what is a healthy relationship if not a safe space to grow together?

While some issues are, unfortunately, insurmountable and require ending the relationship, many others can be addressed if both partners are willing to put in the effort. Hence the need to critically reflect on your own actions and consider how you might be contributing to the relationship’s challenges.

So, instead of pointing fingers, focus on the things that you can control: your behavior, your responses, etc. And talk to each other. You would be surprised how sometimes all it takes is a heartfelt conversation or spending quality time together to reignite the flames and bring you back in sync.

”Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is a success!” – Henry Ford

Your turn: take a moment to reflect on your relationship and see if there is a way to make things better.

Remember relationships are complex and ever-evolving, and it’s natural to face challenges but before deciding that it is over, consider if there is something you can do to make things right.

And remember, sharing your experiences and your insights can be incredibly helpful to others. So, feel free to share your thoughts and stories in the comments. Your journey could be the encouragement someone else needs.

—

This post was previously published on medium.com.

***

From The Good Men Project on Medium

What Does Being in Love and Loving Someone Really Mean?

My 9-Year-Old Accidentally Explained Why His Mom Divorced Me

The One Thing Men Want More Than Sex

The Internal Struggle Men Battle in Silence

***

Join The Good Men Project as a Premium Member today.

All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS.

A $50 annual membership gives you an all access pass. You can be a part of every call, group, class and community.
A $25 annual membership gives you access to one class, one Social Interest group and our online communities.
A $12 annual membership gives you access to our Friday calls with the publisher, our online community.