Relationship Risks You Should Be Taking
Being in an intimate relationship requires taking risks. There is no way around it – in order for your partner to know who you really are, you must be vulnerable. You have to reveal your soft spots, your weaknesses, and your authentic self in order to create a deep connection with your partner. Of course, to the extent that you get close enough to be vulnerable with another person, you get close enough for that person to invalidate you. That is why this feels risky, because it is! Indeed, putting yourself out there can be scary, but you will find that in order to increase your connection with your partner, you simply must take these risks.
When faced with the choice of retreating to safety, closing yourself down, and avoiding the risk of invalidation with your partner, keep in mind that you can be bold and courageous instead. A likely outcome is that you will at least feel proud of yourself for being authentic and courageous. You may also get the added bonus of receiving all the validation you need from your partner, in which case you will be glad you took the risk. Here are just three relationship risks that you can take in your relationship today.
- Speak up. Although it can be scary to “put yourself out there” and reveal your deeply held values, share personal past experiences, or even just state your honest opinion (even if it is in opposition to your partner’s), these things are precisely what make you you. Ultimately, it is important that your partner know who you really are, not just a version of yourself that is a mirror of your partner. Be bold and speak up!
- Take some time apart. By this, I mean take time to do your own activities. Risk putting a little space between you two and see what happens. Solid relationships should be able to tolerate individuality and a healthy degree of separateness between partners. It is within this space that curiosity, longing, and ultimately, desire grows.
- Make a bold gesture. Maybe it’s saying “I love you” first or sending a gift to your loved one “just because,” but these gestures are a clear statement about your feelings for your partner. Maybe you will be nervous that it is too much or is coming on too strong, but why hide your feelings? Give yourself permission to be bold in stating your loving feelings. Your excitement may actually buoy your partner’s feeling toward you, as well.

Recent Posts
What Happens In Supportive Counseling Sessions?
Therapy can feel overwhelming for many people. The thought of exploring deep, unresolved issues or confronting past trauma often leads to hesitation, but some people may not be looking for this kind of in-depth, intensive treatment. Instead, they may seek…
Read MoreThings To Consider Before Choosing A Telehealth Therapy
Telehealth therapy has become an increasingly popular option for individuals seeking remote mental health care. The convenience of online counseling and therapy has made it easier for people to access support no matter where they are. However, the shift from…
Read MoreDo You Have An Addictive Personality? 8 Common Signs
Understanding addiction goes beyond the substance itself. Addiction is a condition that influences both the brain and behavior, compelling individuals to persist in harmful actions despite knowing their consequences. Many people wonder, “do I have an addictive personality?” This term…
Read MoreDo You Need Help?

Not what you were looking for?