When Does 'I Do' turn into 'I Do The Dishes'?
Ah, marriage – that delightful adventure where "I do" turns into "I do the dishes" and "I do the laundry." We all know that life can get crazier than a toddler on a sugar bender, and amidst the chaos, it's easy to forget that communication is key. Here are a few tips to make communication with your significant other easier...
Put Your Bloody Phone Down
When your partner is in the middle of sharing a story about their coworker's wacky antics, give them the attention they deserve. Put down your phone like it's a hot potato, turn off the TV before you find out who gets the final rose, and stare into their eyes like you've just discovered a hidden treasure map on their forehead. Trust me; it'll make them feel more heard than a rock star at a screaming fan convention.
Repeat After Me... or Them
After your partner's epic monologue, do your best to summarise their wild journey. Even if you're as lost as a penguin in the Sahara, act like you've just uncovered the meaning of life in their words. Say something like, "So, what you're saying is, your coworker is basically the real-life Kardashian? That's insane!"
It's like emotional validation karaoke, and you're the star.
Duct Tape It! (Your Mouth, That Is)
Temptation to interject your thoughts can be as strong as a siren's call, but resist! Let your partner spill the beans uninterrupted, even if you're bursting to share your exciting discovery of that new brewery around the corner. This will show that you value their input more than a golden ticket to the chocolate factory.
Let It Move – Your Body
Use body language that screams, "I'm not just here; I'm here to party!" Nod your head like a bobblehead dashboard dog, maintain a posture so open you could fit a giraffe through it, and make facial expressions that rival a soap opera's dramatic moments. Steer clear of crossed arms because that's like sending a text message with a "read" receipt. Total buzzkill.
After Party (Even If You're Busy)
After the grand performance, don't just disappear into the black hole of your daily routine. Follow up on their words, even if it's as simple as asking, "Hey, did your coworker do anything else ridiculous today?"
Taking action, like actually looking up that brewery, is the icing on the cake. It shows that you care about their words as much as you care about the crap you scroll on Snapchat.
Remember, active listening isn't just a hobby; it's a full-time job in the world of marriage. So, gear up, put on your communication cape, and show your partner that you're still in the game, even when life's trying to throw you a curveball the size of a beach!