Whether you are starting a new relationship or managing a marriage, having effective tactics and strategies to build the foundation of a healthy relationship is important. As a highly sensitive person, communicating your needs and preferences can be tough, but especially important. This is why I’ve outlined six healthy relationship tips for HSPs. So you can set both yourself and your partner up for success in the long haul.
#1 Be clear about your needs
Being able to clearly communicate your needs on an emotional, physical and mental level creates boundaries for your partner. It enables them to understand you better and can even create a deeper connection. They can support you and your needs, without overstepping or creating anxiety for you. You just have to be very specific and clear about what best supports you.
#2 Schedule “me” time, as often as you need it
Scheduling time for you as often as you need it is one of the best relationship tips for keeping you healthy. It helps you recoup and gives your deep-thinking mind time to process and relax. Whether it’s just a few hours at the end of the day to go on a walk alone, sending your partner out for the evening, or simply a 30-minute break for you to read a book or think, it’s a must.
#3 Have clear expectations and a plan for social outings
If you know a social outing is coming up, make a plan with your partner. Knowing what to expect, like how long you’ll be there, helps to keep your mind at ease. Let your partner know if something is too much, or if you need to leave early. Be sure to explain what you are wanting, expecting, and feeling before you leave for the night and as the event progresses.
If you have a partner who thrives on social activity, it’s important for a healthy relationship that you find a balance. Support them by giving them an opportunity to go out with their friends, while you have some alone time. Pick social gatherings you are ok attending, and communicate which you’d prefer to skip. Not only will you both feel valued and accepted, but this tip will help you develop a healthy relationship.
#4 Talk about your communication style for a healthy relationship
Being an HSP, deep thinking is in your DNA. Sometimes this means you need time to reflect, think, and better understand your emotions prior to having an in-depth conversation with your partner. That’s okay! You just need to ensure your partner knows this. Explain to them that you need more time to process things and that you’ll be ready to check in about your readiness to talk after a certain amount of time.
Giving your partner a look into how you communicate, helps them level set their own expectations. It keeps you two communicating effectively while giving you the space you need as an HSP. Talking about your communication style is a key tip to a healthy relationship.
#5 Set your home up together, emphasizing what’s comfortable for you
Oftentimes people don’t realize the importance of how you set up your home. Walking into your home and having it set up the way you feel comfortable helps you establish a sense of peace and tranquility. A home space that doesn’t overwhelm you is free of clutter and has appropriate lights, sounds, and space. This can be soothing, which can put your mind and emotions at ease.
If you’re moving in with a partner or having a partner move in with you, have an open conversation about spacing, colors, and all the details about how you can make the setup work for you both. Helping your partner know what is important to you at home, helps them better understand you as a person, and it sets them up for success in supporting your needs.
#6 Lastly, the most important tip for a healthy relationship: Choose a partner who values your superpower
If nothing else, this may be the most important tip to having a healthy relationship. Highly sensitive people often hear “you’re too sensitive” so finding a partner who is able to love and support your superpower without comments and criticism will help you thrive. A partner who can listen to you, help support your needs, and allow you to be you, creates a healthy relationship.
There are so many tips for having a healthy relationship, whether you’re an HSP or not. But when you are an HSP it’s really important for you to have the right space, the right partner, and the right boundaries so you can flourish.
Not sure if you’re a highly sensitive person? Learn more about high sensitivity and what it means to be a highly sensitive person.
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