When Your Normal is ‘Off’ How is Your Relationship Impacted?
Let’s say you have a new influence on your every day life. Maybe your in-laws are visiting, your husband is out of town, or your child is sick. Those can all be stressors. You love the people in your life and want to be there for them, but if your ‘normal’ is off, you need to something about it. Something healthy and good.
First, identify that you don’t feel like yourself.
You need to separate your feelings from the actual events that are taking place. Are you sad about being ‘left out’ of a fun trip (even if it’s for his work)? Are you irritated about having to give up your plans to provide the extra comfort your child needs? Are you frustrated that your husband slips back into ‘son’ role when his parents are in town and he minimizes his interaction with you?
Next, determine what you want to do about the situation.
Do you want your husband to listen and validate your feelings? Do you want him to brainstorm with you for some ‘us’ time even during this ‘off’ season? Do you want him to hear your heart while you repent for some selfishness or insecurity?
Last, find a way to include him in your journey.
Should you dump your rambling thoughts while the emotion is still intense? Should you tell him you need to ‘talk’ knowing that might make him ill at ease in anticipation? Should you diffuse yourself, share a snippet, and set-up an agreed upon time to share?
Relationships are living entities, forever changing, adjusting and providing opportunities for vulnerability and trust.
The process starts with getting your 100% value and identity from God. Then, you have to know and love yourself. After that, if mutual respect and understanding is the goal, you can find a healthy choice that keeps your emotional intimacy close.
Choosing to learn, while you’re in the middle of an ‘off normal’ season, is the hope that pulls you through to the next better place in ‘us’.
