Reloscope

Dr. Liz Jenkins: Tackling Relationship Stress — Navigating Couple Challenges | Reloscope #68

Relationships can be challenging, especially when stress and conflict arise. Many couples struggle to navigate these difficult moments, unsure how to work through their differences. Dr Liz shared her perspective on common relationship misconceptions, sources of stress, and strategies for overcoming challenges as a couple.

Meet Dr. Liz Jenkins

Dr Liz Jenkins helps couples reconnect, repair, and reignite their love, quickly transforming their relationships or marriages into their early years’ connection and passion. She is a trusted expert who quickly identifies each couple’s and individual’s unique path for success in their self-love and relationships. 

She’s currently featured as a relationship expert in Dave Ramsey’s Online Dating Facebook Group and Singles Collective Facebook Group, a featured Podcast guest on shows such as The Fit & Fabulous Podcast with Dr. Jamie Seeman, and a Masterclass on Relationships with Kyle Gillette.

She’s also a published author. Her true passion and superpower is guiding couples to identify their unique path to relationship success. 

About the episode

According to research, 65% of divorced couples said that if they had known more about what it takes to maintain a long-term relationship, they may have been able to work things out. 

One of the biggest misconceptions Dr Liz encounters is that relationships are supposed to be easy. Many people believe that if they’re meant to be with someone, everything will be smooth sailing with only minor bumps.

In reality, even strong couples face stress and conflict. You don’t see publicly the behind-the-scenes efforts of successful couples to communicate effectively, work through disagreements, and support each other through difficult times.

Dr Liz defines relationship stress as when external or internal factors, big or small, create tension or cracks in a couple’s connection. The familiar sources of relationship stress can include:

  • Career choices and changes
  • Parenting differences
  • Division of household responsibilities
  • Relationships with family and friends
  • Financial issues

Common warning signs include avoidance, increased tension, frequent arguments over trivial matters, and persistent anger or resentment. Couples may experience a decline in intimacy and struggle to enjoy time together, leading to a focus on negative aspects of the relationship.

According to Dr Liz, resentment is particularly damaging, as it gradually diminishes the perceived value of the partner and the relationship when left unresolved.

Dr Liz recommends several strategies to navigate relationship stress that encourage reconnection and effective communication:

  • Self-awareness: Individuals must acknowledge their behaviors and contributions to the relationship dynamic.
  • Engage in meaningful discussions: This approach can prevent conflicts from intensifying, while using “I” statements fosters open communication without triggering defensiveness.
  • Cultivating curiosity: Asking questions rather than making assumptions helps deepen understanding between partners.
  • Take breaks from heated conversations: Focusing on relationship strengths and creating positive experiences can help rebuild emotional bonds.

In cases where stress persists, seeking professional support from a couples therapist or relationship coach can provide valuable guidance.

Preventing relationship stress requires ongoing effort and intentional habits. Dr Liz suggests daily check-ins to maintain emotional connection, weekly discussions to address minor concerns, and monthly check-ups for a more in-depth review of relationship dynamics.

In conclusion

All couples face challenges – how you work through them together matters most. With the right tools and mindset, relationship stress can become an opportunity for growth and deeper intimacy rather than a source of disconnection. Don’t hesitate to seek support if you’re struggling in your relationship. Resources like couples therapy and relationship education programs can provide valuable guidance for reconnecting and thriving as a couple.

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Trisha Anjanette

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