Governments from all over the world have encouraged their citizen to stay at home and avoid public gatherings due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Some countries have even put up a quarantine period to stop this epidemic from growing any further.
This isolation has drastically impacted the routines of many people. Even the most outgoing and busy scheduled people are made to stay at home due to the safety measures. This all-day every-day isolation can create tensions with people you live with, especially your spouse.
However, this fact cannot be avoided that things will get tense as the quarantine continues. While the aspect of avoiding any non-essential contact should also be taken into consideration. Let’s take a look at a few important things that you should follow to isolate yourself with your partner without having your relationship end up in a disaster.
1. Anticipate some tension
Extended periods of isolation and inactivity will create boredom and agitation with time. You will find yourself getting annoyed at small details and even have some heated discussions from time to time.
Understand that you and your partner have been through testing times in the past but this will be a whole new experience. Don’t assume that your spouse feels the same way you do and try
Not to read minds.
2. Be aware of the red flags
There are some catalysts that often escalate the situation. You should be mindful and observant of yourself and your partner. See when these red flags appear and try to back down or control the situation.
The red flags include criticism (when you’re complaining or finding faults with your partner), hostility( calling names, depreciating humour, mocking or insulting), defensiveness( not accepting your mistakes and ignoring your bad behaviour), Ignoring (withdrawing from a conversation)
3. Keep Good Communication
With so much going on, it can be difficult to stay positive and open with one another. Especially if you are upset or scared, this underlying anxiety can create strong emotional reactions. Try to keep an open dialogue with one another and be mindful of your emotional reactions.
Openly discuss with your loved one that both of you are going through a hard time and this isolation might cause some emotional outbursts during this quarantine period. Communication is the key and try to be as clear with each other as you possibly can. Be empathic with your partner, say “I’m listening to you and tell me how I can help”
4. Establish a routine
Staying within for walls of your room with one another the whole day is bound to bring some agitation. Too much intimacy is also not good for extended periods, especially in a situation like this. Therefore, it’s important to stay engaged and have a positive amount of interaction and closeness. Establish some variety into your routine and try to stay engaged in other activities instead of sitting idle on your digital devices all day long.
5. Treat Each Other With Kindness
Both of you are going through a tough time. Your partner’s concerns are equally important as yours. It’s going to be equally hard for them too, so try to maintain a sense of empathy and treat each other with kindness.
Understand that your behaviours are primarily not due to a relationship problem, rather, it’s the circumstances that are making you act this way. Try to ignore small misunderstandings and be the kinder person of the two.
Conclusion
This outbreak is a test for all of us, and it can have equally damaging impacts on our relationships. Try to understand the circumstances and be more empathic with your partner. Extensive work is being done all across the planet to find the cure and hopefully, this isolation will be lifted soon and we’ll soon return back to our normal lives.