5 Ways to speak about the tough things with your other half

We usually go about our days having light-hearted conversations and, hopefully, lots of laughter. However, there comes a time when you need to have a difficult conversation with someone you love. This could be a conversation about money, or it could be to do with a disability or going into a care home. No matter the subject topic, it is important you approach it in the right manner. Read on to discover some useful tips on having a tough conversation with your partner…

Stay optimistic – The first tip is to try and stay positive and optimistic. It is likely that the situation you find yourself in feels like there is no positive outcome. However, if you have decided that all hope is lost, you will invariably interpret everything that the other person says with a large dose of pessimism.

Agree on common goals – No matter what you are talking about, one of the best things to do is agree on common goals. What are the objectives that both of you would like to reach? This may be getting the right treatment for your child who is unwell, it could mean being debt-free, pursuing a case with nursing home neglect lawyers for your parents, or it could mean giving up alcohol. You may not agree on how you are going to get there, but by knowing where you both want to go, you will have a great starting point.

Listen to what the other person has to say – A lot of us are guilty of talking too much and not listening enough. However, if you do not actually listen to what the other person has to say – and this means really listen – you are not going to get anywhere.

Research professional assistance before presenting it – No matter whether you are considering sending your loved one to a care home or you want them to see a counselor, you should research the professional options you are considering before you present them. 

Leave ‘but’ sentences out of it – ‘But’ sentences are designed to try and soften the blow. However, this probably is not the right time to sugar-coat things. You have prepared yourself for a conversation, so have one. The last thing you want to do is end up needing to have another difficult conversation because you have not been clear the first time.

Final words on speaking with your other half

If you follow the advice that has been provided, you should find the conversation with your loved one a bit easier. Don’t forget to give your loved one the chance to speak too, and actually listen to what they have to say. After all, it is likely to be a conversation that is just as difficult for the person you are speaking to. Remember, it is important to stay patient and make sure that both opinions are respected so that you can get the best possible results from the conversation with your other half.