17 Things to do When Your Relationship is Struggling

Why do most relationships struggle?

There are several common reasons why relationships may struggle:

1. Communication breakdowns
2. Unresolved conflicts
3. Lack of intimacy or emotional connection
4. Infidelity or trust issues
5. Financial stress
6. Differences in values, goals, or lifestyle
7. Stress and external pressures

The importance of ups and downs in a relationship

While it’s natural to want a relationship that is always smooth sailing, the reality is that every relationship will have its fair share of ups and downs.

These challenges can be an opportunity for growth and strengthening the bond between partners.

When couples face and overcome difficulties together, it can deepen their understanding, empathy, and appreciation for one another.

It can also help them develop more effective communication and problem-solving skills, which are essential for a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

17 Things to Do When Your Relationship Is Struggling

1. Prioritize open and honest communication

One of the most important things to do when a relationship is struggling is to prioritize open and honest communication.

This means creating a safe and non-judgmental space for both partners to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of retaliation or criticism.

2. Practice active listening

In addition to expressing your own thoughts and feelings, it’s essential to practice active listening.

This means fully engaging with your partner, making eye contact, and showing that you are truly listening and understanding what they are saying.

3. Identify and address the root causes of the struggle

It’s important to take the time to identify the underlying causes of the struggle in your relationship.

This may involve digging deeper into the issues, exploring past hurts or unresolved conflicts, or examining any external factors that may be contributing to the strain.

4. Seek professional help if needed

If you and your partner are struggling to resolve the issues on your own, it may be beneficial to seek the help of a licensed therapist or counselor.

A professional can provide an objective perspective and help you develop more effective communication and problem-solving strategies.

Related: How to fix a broken relationship

5. Engage in regular date nights or quality time together

Even when a relationship is struggling, it’s important to make time for regular date nights or quality time together. This can help you reconnect, rekindle the spark, and create positive memories to counterbalance the challenges you’re facing.

6. Practice gratitude and appreciation

It’s easy to get caught up in the negatives when a relationship is struggling, but it’s important to also focus on the positive aspects of your partner and your relationship.

Practice expressing gratitude and appreciation for the things you value in your partner and your relationship.

7. Engage in physical intimacy

Physical intimacy can be an important way to reconnect and strengthen the emotional bond between partners. Even if you’re not in the mood, making the effort to be physically intimate can help you feel more connected and may even reignite the spark.

Related; How to work on your relationship

8. Take responsibility for your own actions and emotions

When a relationship is struggling, it can be tempting to blame your partner for the problems. However, it’s important to take responsibility for your own actions, emotions, and contributions to the relationship. This can help you approach the challenges in a more constructive and productive way.

9. Engage in individual self-care

While it’s important to work on the relationship, it’s also essential to take care of yourself as an individual. Make time for activities and hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment, and prioritize your own physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

10. Set clear boundaries and expectations

In a struggling relationship, it’s important to set clear boundaries and expectations for how you want to be treated and how you will treat your partner. This can help create a sense of safety and stability in the relationship.

11. Engage in couple’s activities or hobbies

Finding shared activities or hobbies that you both enjoy can be a great way to reconnect and have fun together. This can help you create positive memories and experiences that can counterbalance the challenges you’re facing.

12. Practice forgiveness and let go of resentment

Holding on to resentment or bitterness can be a major obstacle to healing and growth in a relationship. Practice forgiveness, both for your partner and for yourself, and let go of any lingering resentment or bitterness.

13. Focus on the present moment

When a relationship is struggling, it’s easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future. However, it’s important to focus on the present moment and work on addressing the issues at hand, rather than dwelling on what has happened or what might happen.

14. Engage in regular check-ins or relationship check-ups

Scheduling regular check-ins or relationship check-ups can be a great way to stay on top of the challenges in your relationship and ensure that you’re both on the same page. These check-ins can be a time to discuss any concerns, set new goals, or celebrate progress.

15. Engage in acts of kindness and service

Engaging in acts of kindness and service towards your partner can be a powerful way to strengthen the bond and create a sense of positivity in the relationship. This can be as simple as doing a chore without being asked or surprising your partner with a thoughtful gesture.

16. Engage in regular exercise and physical activity

Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity can be a great way to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. This can be especially beneficial when a relationship is struggling, as it can help you manage the emotional and psychological strain.

17. Engage in regular mindfulness or meditation practices

Engaging in regular mindfulness or meditation practices can be a powerful way to reduce stress, increase emotional regulation, and improve overall well-being. This can be especially beneficial when a relationship is struggling, as it can help you stay present and focused on the task at hand.

Conclusion

When a relationship is struggling, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. However, with the right strategies and a commitment to growth and healing, it is possible to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger than ever.

By prioritizing open and honest communication, seeking professional help when needed, and engaging in self-care and relationship-building activities, couples can work together to address the root causes of their struggles and build a more fulfilling and lasting partnership.

If you and your partner are struggling in your relationship, don’t hesitate to seek help. Consider reaching out to a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome the challenges you’re facing and build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.