With the busy holidays, Joe and I fell behind in discussing our word of the week. Discussing a word and how it relates to us helps us prioritize our relationship and keep it in the forefront of our minds. This week Joe and I talked about the word dignity and what it means to us.
What Dignity Means in Our Relationship
Dignity in our relationship means feeling valued, heard, and understood while being able to communicate openly and truthfully with each other. It's important to us both to feel like we are in a safe space while we communicate our needs and feelings.
Learning to be active listeners and understanding what the other needs is important. Practicing statements of "I" instead of "you" are important parts of respecting each other's dignity and helps each of us not feel blamed in certain situations.
Creating a Safe Space for Communication
One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining dignity in a relationship is creating an environment where both partners feel safe to express themselves. This means:
- Listening without interrupting
- Validating each other's feelings
- Avoiding blame and criticism
- Using "I feel" statements instead of "You always/never"
- Respecting boundaries and personal space
💬 Conversation Starters for Your Relationship
- "What is one thing I do that makes you feel respected and honored in our relationship?"
- "When I am upset, what is the best way for me to communicate with you so you still feel loved and valued?"
Your Turn: What Does Dignity Look Like in Your Relationship?
We'd love to hear your thoughts! How do you and your partner maintain dignity in your relationship? What practices have you found helpful in creating a safe space for communication?
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