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Communicating effectively with your partner is one of the most important parts of maintaining your sexual and mental health.
If you can't speak openly with your partner on things that are important to you, it can be hard to bring up topics that may be the difference between making a life-altering mistake or not. Whether it's insisting on using protection or expressing what you do (or don't) like during sex, your words are your most powerful asset.
How to Communicate Effectively
Be honest.
Maybe your partner does something during sex that you're not into. Maybe your relationship isn't going in the direction you want it to. Maybe you just really can't shake the feeling that the coffee table your significant other picked out for your first apartment together will clash with the sofa and it's eating you alive. Whatever it is, make sure to express your feelings.
Accept that you won't agree on everything.
Recognize that no matter how much time you spend together or for how long, you'll always have different brains and different opinions. If they really want that coffee table, will the living room burst into flames? They let you pick out the throw pillows and the rug, and you'll always have an "I told you so" moment if it looks that horrendous in the end.
Listen.
Really, really listen. Many people listen with the intention of responding. Instead, make sure you listen for the sake of understanding your partner’s point of view. While your perspective matters, don’t forget to take your partner’s into consideration, as well.
Apologize / Forgive.
Like we said, not every disagreement will be resolved by you and your partner coming to the same conclusion. However, the first step to moving forward from an argument is to acknowledge your mistakes and forgive your partner for theirs.
Responding to Pusback
If your partner won't take your thoughts or feelings into account, it's time to have a serious talk.
The key trait of a healthy relationship is that it's mutually beneficial. If only one of you is being heard and the other's views and opinions aren't acknowledged, it may be time to have a talk with your partner about these feelings or cut the relationship short.
References
Scott, E. (2020, July 13). Communication Skills That Can Strengthen Any Relationship. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/managing-conflict-in-relationships-communication-tips-3144967.