In this episode of Been There, Felt That, host Aaron Albert and guest Dr. Alexandra Solomon discuss how to navigate external relationship conflicts. She provides insights into the importance of forgiveness and grace in healing fear and anger in relationships caused by external stressors. She also emphasizes the need to be curious and listen to how your partner experiences stressors differently while being humble and open to other perspectives to create opportunities for complementarity and growth within the relationship. Other topics discussed include integrating emotions, holding space for partners, and coping with raising a child with special needs or dealing with a partner's job loss.

Show Notes:

[00:01:10] Excited and nervous for teaching and transition.

[00:05:55] Gifted son's atypicality the greatest teacher.

[00:10:22] Career pivoted to autism advocacy and counseling.

[00:13:45] External stressors create inter-subjectivity, complementarity opportunities.

[00:18:29] Losing job affects both partners, self-worth stories.

[00:19:28] Partner job loss affects relationship dynamics.

[00:23:56] "Lead with being, not just doing."

[00:26:51] Partner coping with job loss, listen closely.

[00:30:40] Self-compassion is key in tough situations.

[00:34:15] Integration of emotions is challenging in silence.

[00:38:07] Gendered shame regarding child's diagnosis explored.

[00:42:41] Flip partner's coping into system's asset.

[00:46:17] Takeaways: Coping styles differ, mutual respect needed.

[00:48:48] Possible summary: Course based on Loving Bravely book announced.