All relationships experience times when things don't run smoothly and problems arise. If you recognize relationship problems ahead of time, you have a better chance of staying together.
Here are 10 common relationship problems and how get back on track.
Relationship Problem #1: Communication
All relationship problems stem from poor communication, wrote WebMD. Set up some rules, like not interrupting each other and actively listening.
Relationship Problem #2: No more romance
The spark seems to be gone. AskMen.com said it’s time to put some fire back into your relationship. Organize a romantic evening or plan a weekend getaway to reconnect.
Relationship Problem #3: Sex
Even partners who love each other can be incompatible sexually. In addition men and women alike are lacking in sex education and sexual self-awareness. But don’t give it up, said WebMD. It brings partners closer and releases hormones that both physically and mentally help our bodies.
Relationship Problem #4: Money
Financial problems can pose major obstacles in relationships, but communication will help. University of Florida (UF) Counseling and Wellness Center said discussion may not provide the magic solution to financial problems, but partners agreeing about how to approach the situation will relieve some of the stress.
Relationship Problem #5: Struggles over home chores
It's important to equitably divide the labor at home, wrote WebMD. Be organized and clear about your respective jobs at home.
Relationship Problem #6: Not prioritizing your relationship
Relationships can lose their luster, so make yours a priority, said WebMD. Make gestures of appreciation, schedule time together and show interest in each other.
Relationship Problem #7: You need more alone time
UF recommended sharing your feelings about what you need from the relationship in terms of time together. Work to reach a compromise where you both have time together and time apart.
Relationship Problem #8: Conflict
Occasional conflict is a part of life but if it’s constant, it’s time to stop this toxic routine. WebMD said recognizing there is a problem will lessen anger and enable partners to calmly look at the underlying issue. During an argument, AskMen.com advised cutting it short and asking, is this really worth arguing about? Try to understand the problem from her/his point of view.
Relationship Problem #9: Don’t expect your relationship to meet all your needs
Unrealistic expectations lead to resentment. UF wrote that you can make time to discuss your relationship expectations. Listen and clearly communicate about what each partner needs and wants.
Relationship Problem #10: Trust
Trust is essential in a relationship. WebMD recommended working to develop trust in each other by doing what you say you will do, by being fair and sensitive to the other's feelings, and by not overreacting when things go wrong.
Sources:
"24 common relationship problems in couples counselling." Relationship Advice for Relationship Problems. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2012. http://www.professional-counselling.com/relationship-problems.html
Pawlik-Kienlen, Laurie. "The Most Common Relationship Problems in Love: Fear of Intimacy, Fear of Change, and Fear of Rejection | Suite101.com." Suite101.com: Online Magazine and Writers' Network. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2012.
http://suite101.com/article/three-fears-haunting-relationships-a12847
Solomon, Akiba. "7 Relationship Problems and How to Solve Them." WebMD - Better information. Better health.. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2012. http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/7-relationship-problems-how-solve-them.
"Solutions To 6 Relationship Problems." AskMen.com. IGN Entertainment, n.d. Web. 22 June 2012. www.askmen.com/dating/dating_advice_100/106_dating_tips.html.
"UF Counseling & Wellness Center." UF Counseling & Wellness Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 June 2012. http://www.counseling.ufl.edu/cwc/handling-common-relationship-problems.aspx
Reviewed June 28, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith