Family Matters...
Families play a huge role in relationships. Sadly, it’s not always a positive one.
Like it or not, we’re all part of an extended family network. That network can be a source of love and support, or it can be a source of hurt, resentment and disappointment.
All too often, family conflict is a major source of stress in a relationship. Couples can inadvertently find themselves in the middle of something that can completely destabilize them as individuals, and them as a couple. Rather than supporting and providing comfort, families can make a couple feel torn and unsure of what to do.
It’s never easy working through such situations. It’s usually complicated and messy, and there often isn’t a clear cut way to resolve it without someone getting hurt.
Having said that, there’s a simple and effective way of managing a situation to ensure the least amount of damage is done to the couples’ relationship.
It’s this. The couples need to have a united approach to dealing with each of their families. Independently of any problems, they need to commit to making each other the first priority and be prepared to defend that commitment with action when necessary.
Long term committed relationships form family units separate of the extended family. Even without children they are their own nuclear family. Extended families should be just that – an extension of that relationship. They should support it and not look to undermine it. That relationship takes precedence over any other. It has to. Without that focus the intimacy and connection will be worn away.
Couples embroiled in bitter family disputes should ask themselves a powerful question. “What thoughts and actions put my relationship first?” Adopting that mindset first and foremost puts things into perspective.
At the end of the day, holding firm and true to what you want and believe in is always the best option.
Melody “Lil Mel”
Melody "Lil Mel" McGowan
Life Coach, Author, & Professional Advisor
Let Your Heart Heal Life Coaching
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