When you think about your relationship, imagine yourself telling it as a story. Do you focus on the positive or negative parts of your time together? According to John Mordechai Gottman, PhD, the author of Principia Amoris: The New Science of Love, “Our best prediction of the future of a relationship came from a couple’s ‘story of us.’ It’s an ever-changing final appraisal of the relationship and your partner’s character.”When you focus on the negative aspects of your relationship, you create resentment. Letting things get, and stay, under your skin is an indicator that the relationship isn’t going to last. More than 90% of the time, the people who focused on the bad parts ended up splitting up. If the first things that come to mind are events or everyday issues that annoy you, it could be time to reassess your relationship. Thankfully, there are ways to change your thinking and focus on the positive.
Open Communication: Talk to your partner about the things you’re still upset about. It could be something from a long time ago, but it can breed resentment. Getting them out into the open can help. Let it Go: Once you’ve talked things out and feel better about them, it’s easier to let them go. Focus on that process. Think About the Positive: What have been the best times in your relationship? What are the little things your partner does that are special? Those are the important things. Practice Gratitude: Be thankful for your partner and the positive qualities they possess. Remember, there’s a reason you’re with them and a reason you fell in love.
A negative retelling of your story can really predict whether or not your relationship will last. Take action and turn your thoughts to positive ones to create a better and more successful relationship.
