In this episode, I will be addressing a listener's question in a little more depth. 

If you do not resonate with the example shared, then please replace "tattoo" with something that your partner has done that is against your wishes. 

(Please listen to the podcast episode or read the transcript to hear explanations, stories and examples.) 

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Higgins discusses: 

• The benefits of working through the power struggle phase. 
• Navigating the two main conflicting needs in relationship. 
• Addressing differences in a safe, supportive and collaborative way. 
• How to develop deeper levels of understanding and empathy when discussing a tender, emotional topic with your significant other. 
• Gaining clarity about boundaries and agreements. 
• Identifying and shifting out of critical and defensive patterns.

Mentioned:  

Shifting Criticism into Connected Communication - Free Guide

Relationship Map - Free Cheat Sheet

Podcast:

• ERP 200: HOW TO USE YOUR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE FOR CONNECTION, PART TWO
• ERP 199: HOW TO USE YOUR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE FOR CONNECTION
• WHAT DOES THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTIMACY LOOK LIKE IN RELATIONSHIP?
• ERP 110: HOW TO MANAGE TWO MAJORLY CONFLICTING NEEDS IN RELATIONSHIP
• ERP 013: BALANCING INTIMACY AND AUTONOMY IN RELATIONSHIP
• ERP 045: HOW TO GAIN SELF-CONFIDENCE IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP
• ERP 006: MAKING AND KEEPING AGREEMENTS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP
• ERP 116: HOW TO REGAIN TRUST AND SELF-CONFIDENCE WHEN YOU’VE LOST IT
• ERP 194: HOW TO ALCHEMIZE YOUR TRIGGERS INTO INSIGHT – AN INTERVIEW WITH TOBIN ZIVON

Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins:  

Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship 

Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins 

Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts 

Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins 

Twitter: @DrJessHiggins 

Website: drjessicahiggins.com  

Email: [email protected]  

If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here. 

Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. 

Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. 

Thank you!  

If you are interested in developing new skills to overcome relationship challenges, please consider taking the Connected Couple Program or engaging in relationship coaching work with me.