Being the support system for your significant other means making up for their deficit in hard times.
Supporting your partner can take on many forms; however if you are failing to provide support or are providing the wrong type of support, your relationship will definitely suffer.
But fear no more, here is your easy ways to support your parter.
Be More Aware of Your Overreactions
When something is wrong with your partner, your first instinct might be to jump in and help without thinking. It’s important to be more conscious of your reactions and how they might impact your partner. Most times, when you jump to conclusions and assume you know how to help, it can add more stress and leave your partner feeling overwhelmed.
If you feel the need to control the situation , pull back. While you may have good intentions, you’re basically telling your partner that they are unable to handle the situation themselves and that you’re better equipped to do so. When you truly support your partner, you will empower them to take charge of their own life. It’s not your job to tell them how to do it, but rather be by their side and encourage them every step of the way.
Work On Yourself
You can’t support your partner without first ensuring you’re able to do so. If you have your own problems to solve, make sure to do that before trying to help your partner with theirs. It’s not that you can’t show support or compassion until then — you just need to be able to fully commit to helping their situation, and you can’t do that if you’re too focused on your own. Working on the best version of you helps you be the best partner possible.
Remember That You’re a Team
During tough times, remind your partner that you’re in it together. You’re a team! You have each other’s backs no matter what. Sometimes you can forget to remind your partner of that, especially if the relationship has lasted a while. Don’t just let your partner assume that you’re going to be there for them — verbalize it and show them you mean it.
Apologize When You’re Wrong
It’s not always easy to admit when you’re wrong, but it’s important when you’re trying to be more supportive. Whether you broke a promise or didn’t do something you said you would, you need to show your partner that you’re capable of owning your mistakes.
The same goes for wrongfully accusing your partner. If you find yourself blaming them for something, take a moment to reflect and determine whether you are actually the one at blame.
Put the Phone Down
Although this is tied into active listening, it deserves its own category! We are so consumed by phones, social media, and other forms of technology that we sometimes forget to set it aside when someone else is talking. To be more supportive of your partner, show them that what they have to say is much more important than whatever is on your phone screen.
Know What They Need
It’s a really simple conversation that can make a huge difference. Some people may need space, others may want companionship, some may need to talk it out endlessly. Once you have that information, you can put it to use when it counts most.
Know When To Ask Questions
If something seems to be bothering your partner, open up the conversation. “People need space, so it may be that you need to give your partner space, but it may also be that there’s something wrong and he or she doesn’t know how to talk about it.” With some gentle prompting, you’ll give them the opportunity to share.
Give them Time And Attention.
Being supportive requires being present. While you have your own life and problems, you must make time for your significant other. Time spent together should include communication, physical touch, eye contact, and little to no distractions. Have a date night out or a quiet night in regularly, have a meaningful conversation or check in daily, and remember to focus on your relationship even when things get busy.
Express Gratitude
Being a supportive partner requires letting your significant other know when you appreciate them and their actions. It is difficult for someone to know what actions you are grateful for or which actions you notice if gratitude is not verbally expressed. It also helps if a “thank you” is accompanied by a hug or other thankful gesture. Your partner would even enjoy an occasional card expressing your thanks. Whichever manner you choose to show your appreciation will allow your partner to feel the support more literally.
Allow Your Partner To Be Their Own Person
When it comes to being supportive, it means being present for your partner’s big moments. Personal, work and other milestones that result from your significant other’s efforts should be celebrated. Even so, there are times that a person wants to celebrate in their way – and sometimes that means stepping back from the foreground and letting them do it on their own. You must allow your significant other the space to have their achievements and successes but be available to add support when necessary.