Un-Valentine’s Day Challenge: Caring

Un-Valentine's Day Challenge - CaringEach of us has our own unique ways of believing that we are loved and cared about. It has been called our “love language.” It means that when our partner does or says something specific that invokes a deeply felt emotional response, we interrupt their behavior as meaning that they love and care for us.

We may do or say lots of things to our partner that they are likely to appreciate, but it is not until we say or do those very specific things that “hit the bulls eye,”—that they will interpret, feel and internalize as our really loving and caring for them.
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Un-Valentine’s Day Challenge: Acceptance

Acceptance and RespectRespect and acceptance are two extremely important ways that couples exemplify their love for each other. Respecting your partner means that you value them as a person and that you perceive them as being a unique individual who enjoys the wisdom of their own life experiences.

You are supportive of their right to be in charge of their own life and you let them know that you are pulling for them to be themselves and be all that they choose to be.

In accepting your partner you acknowledge them for being who they are and don’t try to change them or their behavior.
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Un-Valentine’s Day Challenge: Understanding

Communicating UnderstandingSuccessful marriages begin by spouses really understanding each other. In communicating understanding you are letting your spouse know that you hear and understand where they are coming from. You make it a point to understand the thoughts and feelings of your partner.

You make every effort to “get into their shoes” and experience their feelings with them. You respond to what they are saying first, before expressing your own thoughts or feelings. This let’s them know that they’ve been heard.

Both work at this because the better you understand your spouse, the easier it is to communicate effectively with them. It helps to build a greater connection, closeness, a bond and trust with each other.
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