Start depositing positive things into your relationships and your partner’s emotional bank account. In intimate relationships, people are involved in consistent interactions throughout the day. It may not seem important, but as a whole, together, it adds up to something quite significant. Relationships are built on a series of small interactions, and each contributes to or takes away from the emotional bank account.
One way to strengthen a person’s emotional bank account is by actively listening to your partner. This means giving them your undivided attention, showing empathy, and understanding their perspective without judgment. By doing so, you are depositing trust, respect, and validation into their emotional bank account, making them feel heard and valued.
In Dr. John Gottman’s research of 800 couples over the course of many years, he wrote a book called “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.” In that book, he writes, “Happily married couples noticed almost all of the positive things the researchers observed their partners do for them…unhappily married couples underestimated their partners’ loving intentions by 50 percent!”
Relationships and emotions go hand in hand. And sometimes, relationships take a toll on our emotional well-being. That’s where mental health counseling can help. A professional and compassionate counselor can guide you to navigate challenges and strengthen relationships. New Directions Mental Health offers individual, couples, and family counseling services to support you in building healthier and happier relationships. Don’t wait—call us today at 724.374.7414 and schedule an appointment with one of our counselors or psychologists.
Comprehending the Connection Between Relationships and Emotions
Emotions play a crucial role in any relationship, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. Our interactions with others can either deposit or withdraw from our emotional bank account. It’s essential to understand how our actions and words affect those we care about.
We feel happy, fulfilled, and supported when our relationships are thriving. However, when things are rocky or strained, it can take a toll on our emotions. That’s why investing time and effort into maintaining healthy relationships is vital.
Are You Offering a Positive or Negative Deposit?
Your perspective and how you receive your partner’s comments or actions often dictate how you respond back. One spouse might comment, “Did you do any laundry today?” This could be received from neutral to positive. For example, they could say, “Not yet, but I am hoping to,” or it could be received from neutral to negative, with a response like, “I haven’t had any time, so don’t ask me for anything else today.”
In relationships, the more positive deposits you can make, the more likely your partner will receive a negative comment more neutrally. Like any bank—you can’t take out what you haven’t already put in. When you continually make negative deposits, your partner’s emotional bank account may become overdrawn, leading to arguments and conflicts.
How Can I Deposit More into My Partner’s Positive Emotional Bank
- Try turning toward – Both emotionally and physically, look to turn toward your partner or spouse. Physically face them, make eye contact, and relax your posture. Emotionally, listen to their feelings and expressions and hear the content of their words. Try to summarize what you think you heard.
- Practice empathy – Spend a few minutes each day wondering what being your partner or spouse is like. Think of their highs, lows, stresses, and achievements. Rehearse your words when arriving home or leaving to go out based on what fits their needs best.
- Be purposefully humble – Look for opportunities to do something they like, say something they appreciate, and touch them in a way they enjoy.
- Hesitate and delay – Receive as many comments or non-verbal communications neutrally. Slow down your “jump to conclusions” and delay your judgment of the situation. Ask for clarity before heading in the wrong direction.
Seek Help When Needed
At times, navigating through challenges in relationships on our own can be challenging. That’s where mental health counseling comes in. A professional therapist can provide an unbiased perspective, help identify patterns and communication styles, and offer guidance on improving relationships.
At New Directions Mental Health, we believe in the power of therapy and its ability to strengthen relationships. We offer a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to work toward healthier and happier connections. Don’t hesitate to reach out at 724.374.7414—our team of compassionate medical professionals is here to help you along your journey toward stronger relationships.
Benefits of Depositing into a Person’s Emotional Bank Account
Depositing into a person’s emotional bank account profoundly impacts relationships, fostering an environment of trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Such deposits enhance the relationship’s quality and contribute to the emotional well-being of the individuals involved.
Here are some critical benefits:
- Strengthens bond – Regular deposits of kind words, understanding, and support can strengthen the bond between individuals, contributing to a healthier, happier relationship.
- Reduces conflicts – When the emotional bank account is full, minor disagreements or misunderstandings are less likely to escalate into major conflicts.
- Promotes emotional stability – Emotional deposits can bolster an individual’s emotional stability, reinforcing their feelings of self-worth and positivity.
- Fosters mutual respect – Regular positive interactions can foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding.
- Enhances communication – Deposits in the emotional bank account can improve communication, as individuals feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Making regular deposits into a person’s emotional bank account is an investment in the relationship’s future, contributing to its longevity and overall health.
Contact New Directions Mental Health for Mental Health Counseling for Improving Your Relationships and Emotions
New Directions Mental Health offers a range of counseling services to support individuals, couples, and families in building healthier relationships. Our team of dedicated medical professionals is committed to helping you navigate through challenges and strengthen your emotional bank account.
We provide these services in multiple locations throughout Pennsylvania. Contact us today at 724.374.7414 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier relationships. Remember, investing in your relationships is investing in yourself. Let New Directions Mental Health be a part of your journey toward happier connections.