A strong and healthy marriage is built on a foundation of love, respect, and effective communication. However, it’s important to recognize that certain behaviors, even seemingly small ones, can erode the trust and connection between spouses over time.
Here are the 15 behaviors to keep out of your marriage.
Constant Criticism
Constantly criticizing your spouse, whether it’s about their habits or decisions, can be detrimental to a marriage. Instead of focusing on what they do wrong, strive to communicate your concerns constructively and respectfully.
Simply changing your perspective of life, and how you feel about your spouse and looking at things in a positive way instead of focusing on the negative can completely transform your marriage. Give it a try!
You may enjoy this great podcast titled: 140. The Way You Speak To Your Spouse (And Yourself) Can Have Severe Consequences.
Controlling Behavior
Controlling behavior in a marriage can be detrimental to the relationship and may even be considered emotionally or psychologically abusive. It’s essential to recognize and address controlling behavior early to maintain a healthy and respectful relationship.
Isolation
Isolating your spouse from their friends or family members can damage their support system and emotional well-being. Encourage and support your spouse’s relationships outside of your marriage.
Stonewalling
Refusing to communicate or engage in resolving issues creates emotional distance and frustration. Open and honest communication is essential for a thriving marriage.
Gaslighting
Manipulating or distorting reality to make your spouse doubt themselves is emotionally abusive. Build trust through transparency and empathy.
Excessive Jealousy
While a little jealousy can be natural, excessive jealousy can be suffocating. Trust and open communication can help alleviate these feelings.
Silent Treatment
Using the silent treatment as a way to punish your spouse or avoid confronting issues is unproductive. Instead, take time to cool off and then communicate openly.
Withholding Affection or Sex
Withholding physical affection or sex as a form of manipulation or punishment can lead to intimacy issues. Keep the lines of physical connection open and express your love.
Many couples play this game and use sex as a weapon in their relationship. Here is a great podcast titled: 116. Is This Toxic Emotional And Sexual Intimacy Game Being Played In Your Marriage?
Constant Blaming
Blaming your spouse for everything that goes wrong can damage their self-esteem and create a hostile environment. Take responsibility for your actions and work together to find solutions.
Threats
Making threats, whether to leave the relationship or cut off certain aspects, is emotionally harmful. Healthy marriages involve problem-solving and compromise.
Financial Control
Control over finances can lead to power imbalances. Work together to create a budget and financial plan that benefits both spouses.
Constant Sarcasm
Excessive sarcasm, especially when used in a hurtful way, can be emotionally damaging. Maintain a balance between humor and sensitivity in your interactions.
Invalidation
Dismissal of your spouse’s feelings or experiences can make them feel unimportant. Validate their emotions and concerns to build trust and empathy.
Public Humiliation
Embarrassing your spouse in front of others is a severe breach of trust. Show respect and support for your spouse in all settings.
Using Children
Using children as pawns or involving them in marital conflicts can cause lasting emotional harm. Protect your children from your issues and focus on co-parenting effectively.
A successful and enduring marriage requires effort from both spouses. By recognizing and avoiding these toxic behaviors, you can create a healthier and more loving relationship. Remember that communication, respect, and empathy are key to maintaining a strong and happy marriage. Work together as a team to overcome challenges and nurture your bond.
Ultimate Intimacy
