"But, like, how are we supposed to be roommates?!" asks the umpteenth relatable couple of the day.
Couples tend to face the same types of problems no matter who they are....
How to feel seen? Understood? Appreciated? Maybe even share in a little spice of life once in a while?
One of the reasons it can be difficult to understand each other is that we are truly different! This is a wonderful gift, really, if you allow it... On our worst days though, it can feel lonely,
disconnecting, and like something could be wrong.
This is especially true for folks with different learning styles, such as ADHD, OCD, Autism, and mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. How do we help each other out when we are truly going through a different experience? How do we stay connected?
We used to have to rely on trite phrases like Opposites Attract to get us through hard times... but now we have science on our side. There are research-backed tools available in couples counseling to help us out.
The Gottman Method for Couples is well regarded as the "gold standard" in couples therapy because John and Julie Gottman built their work on decades of research with diverse couples. They have proven that you can be a natural born relationship clutz ;) and still succeed in your relationships as long as you put the work in. Their findings show that specific relationship behaviors predict relationship failure or success rather than any innate compatability. This should instill hope in anyone who has wanted to invest more and see returns in an important relationship or goal for growth.