4 Common Ways Partners and Spouses Accidentally Self-Sabotage in Relationships

In any relationship, setting boundaries and maintaining healthy dynamics can be challenging. Sometimes, partners and spouses unintentionally self-sabotage their relationships without even realizing it. Let's highlight the four common ways individuals may unknowingly undermine their relationships and provides guidance on avoiding these pitfalls. By recognizing and understanding these behaviors, you can make conscious choices to foster healthier connections with your partner.

1. The Difference Between Requests and Boundaries: One common mistake people make is confusing requests with boundaries. A request is simply asking someone to do or not do something, like asking your partner to pass the salt or not to drive the kids when they've been drinking. It's essential to recognize that these are just requests and not boundaries. When requests are not followed, it can lead to frustration and a sense of violated boundaries. Understanding the distinction between requests and boundaries is crucial for maintaining healthy communication.

2. Information Updates vs. Boundaries: Another common misconception is mistaking information updates for boundaries. An information update involves informing someone of your intended actions or choices based on their behavior. For example, you might say, "If you choose to drink excessively at Thanksgiving, I will take an Uber home." It is important to note that an information update is not a boundary but a way to provide informed consent or express personal decisions. Using information updates effectively can help avoid ultimatums and navigate emotional situations.

3. Setting and Holding Boundaries: Many people find setting boundaries overwhelming due to its frequent discussion in relationship literature. However, it is crucial to understand that boundaries are primarily internal. Setting boundaries involves developing self-awareness and recognizing personal values, needs, and limits. We can establish a solid foundation for boundaries by understanding ourselves better and what is important. The real challenge lies in holding those boundaries in difficult moments. Individuals can navigate challenging situations more effectively by combining requests and information updates with predetermined boundaries.

4. Avoiding the "Flapping Hand": The "flapping hand" refers to a behavior that partners or spouses may unknowingly exhibit, resembling a hand waving or deflecting attention. This behavior often arises when dealing with a partner struggling with addiction. It involves lecturing, preaching, nagging, or offering unsolicited advice. Acting as the "flapping hand" only diverts attention from the core issue and creates unnecessary tension. To overcome this, it is important to remain calm and composed. Refraining from reactive behaviors helps avoid power struggles and keeps the focus on constructive communication.

Recognizing and addressing the unintentional self-sabotaging behaviors discussed in this blog post can significantly improve relationships. Individuals can establish healthier dynamics with their partners by understanding the distinction between requests and boundaries, utilizing information updates effectively, setting personal boundaries, and avoiding the "flapping hand" behavior. Remember, setting boundaries is primarily an internal process, and maintaining calm and composed communication is crucial when faced with challenges. With practice and self-awareness, individuals can foster stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Kim Garrett

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