Even the strongest relationships have problems sometimes. From financial woes to infidelity to the pressures of parenting, there are so many obstacles waiting to shake a relationship.
That’s the bad news – but the good news is that a lot of relationship problems can be worked out. With a little attention and commitment, you can overcome many common problems and become stronger.
Are you feeling stressed in your relationship? Let’s take a look at 8 relationship problems and how to solve them.
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Financial Worries
Financial problems are a major cause of stress in relationships. If you have more money going out than you are coming in, or your partner tends to be reckless in spending, you will soon find yourself feeling stressed and irritable with one another.
What to do: It’s time for heart to heart, even if it’s stressful. Set a household budget that the two of you can agree on, and stick to it. Remember to factor in some funds for fun spending, if you have enough income to do so.
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Jealousy
The green-eyed monster can rear its ugly head at any point in a relationship. Sometimes it’s about someone you see as a potential threat, but not always. Jealousy can easily arise if you feel that your partner is prioritizing relatives, friends, or colleagues over you.
What to do: First, fact check yourself. How much of what happened was something your partner actually did, and how much insecurity was there? If, insecurity is a problem for you, deal with that first. Be honest with your partner about your feelings and find ways you can deal with them together, too.
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Bad communication
Poor communication can put stress on any relationship. If you find yourself criticizing each other over little things, or turning every disagreement into an argument that leaves one or both of you feeling hurt, there is room for improvement in your communication.
What to do: Good communication is a skill that can be learned. Practice listening to what your partner has to say without judgment, and encourage them to do the same. Learn how to communicate your needs without getting angry or snapping at your partner.
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Infidelity
Cheating has the potential to shake up even the happiest relationships. It strikes at the heart of your relationship and makes you question everything. Does that mean the relationship is over? Not necessarily. If you and your partner really want to make it work, you can – but it takes a serious commitment from both of you.
What to do: Have a serious talk about what you both want from the relationship. If you’re both 100% committed to making it work, it’s time to slowly unpack what happened, and why, and what each of you needs now.
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House chores
Homework is a part of everyday life, but they have the power to cause quite a fight! If you find the two of you arguing about whose turn it is to take out the trash or feed the cat, enmity and resentment will soon form.
What to do: Agree on a plan for who is responsible for each task, and stick to it. Of course you have to be flexible sometimes if one of you is sick or very busy, but in general you both should feel that your partner is doing his fair share.
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Not Enough Time For Each Other
When life gets busy, it’s all too easy for your relationship to go backwards. Sometimes it seems like you can barely remember the last time you had a quiet meal without the kids, or a conversation that wasn’t about work.
What to do: Schedule regular time for each other, every week. Whether it’s date night, morning coffee date, or casual brunch every Saturday, make time for your relationship, no matter how busy you are.
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Parental Concerns
Parenting can be overwhelming and stressful in equal measure – sometimes in an entire day. If you have a restless young child who keeps you up at night, or a child who struggles at school, it can put a lot of stress on your relationship.
What to do: No matter how busy you are, it’s time to sit down and find out what your family needs. How can each of you be more supportive of each other and your children, so that everyone can have a happier outcome?
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Career Stress
We spend so much of our time at work, and when things get tough at the office, the stress quickly carries over to your home life. If you arrive home irritated, or constantly interrupt dinner time or relax to check the latest messages on your phone, your relationship is doomed.
What to do: Make a conscious effort to leave work in the office instead. Set aside some phone downtime at least once a week where you both agree to switch off and just focus on each other, or be on time with your kids. Give your relationship some breathing room where your work is out of sight.
Most relationship problems can be solved if you work on them as a team, and make your relationship a priority in your life. Follow these practical action steps and before you know it, the future will be looking much brighter.
