B & K have really had to lean on their tools and 'tried and tested' strategies for fabulous communication in their relationships in the home. Particularly lately with the change in home roles.

When there is a change in the dynamics in a relationship (marriage in our case), it puts extra stress on partner roles and routines. Such as a partner working away and the other spouse is now at home with an increased workload. Here are some things discussed that B & K use:

• Get to know your partner/people in the relationship so you know the best way to communicate (this is pivotal)
• Weekly check-ins where feelings are removed from problem focused chats
• There is no tit-for-tat or tallies
• Communicate your needs, using phrases such as, "I feel/I realised/I need" instead of starting with blame or shame
• If you feel worried of your partners response when communicating your feelings, generate some ground rules and ask that no retaliation or defences are brought it. A phrase such as, "The story I'm telling myself is..." helps to express your thoughts in a calm way and removes victim mode
• Find ways other than talking to share information and feelings. Ie. Memes, text messages, an agreed upon emoji for when you want to respond but don't have the words, write letters or have a diary to write notes to each other
• Connect with your spouse intimately without any expectations. Snuggling to sleep, to help strengthen to love

We'd love to hear from you, if these were helpful or if you've got any other strategies that work for you. Hit the link for our IG and send us a DM. We love a chat x

https://www.instagram.com/bringingvulnerabilityback/