The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on everyone. Few people are thrilled about the restrictions that have been put in place. From wearing masks to social distancing, it isn’t as though these precautions are always enjoyable.
However, there tends to be a few varying schools of thought about how crucial they are. Some people are happy to abide by the restrictions in the hopes that they will protect themselves and others.
Other people are largely against the restrictions. They might feel as though the restrictions aren’t effective. Or, they might feel like their rights are being taken away. When it’s you and your partner who have opposite views, though, it can create some tension.
How can you handle working through those issues with your partner when you disagree on COVID-19 restrictions? Let’s look at a few tips that can put your relationship back on steady ground.
1. Compromise on Social Gatherings
One of the most significant challenges you might face is handling social gatherings. Some people are avoiding them altogether. Others are attending but taking precautions to stay safe.
You can talk with your partner about attending a few gatherings, but ones that have precautions in place. That might include the fact that they’re held outdoors, or they’re putting safety measures in place.
By compromising where you will go and following restrictions when you get there, you can avoid conflict and a potential argument.
3. Try to Understand Your Partner
You might have a hard time understanding your partner’s point of view about COVID-19. Maybe you think they’re worrying too much. Perhaps you believe they are not worrying enough.
Because you care about them, it’s essential to try to understand where they’re coming from. Talk to them about why they feel the way they do. Why are precautions important or unimportant to them?
Remember, even if you disagree, it doesn’t mean you don’t care about your partner’s feelings on the subject. In the end, it’s not about being right or wrong. It’s not about trying to prove something to your partner. Instead, it’s about letting them know you’re listening and you’re there, even if you don’t fully understand.
3. Talk About It at the Right Time
There is no denying that this pandemic and everything that goes with it has increased stress levels. People feel more on-edge than ever. Plus, if you’re “stuck” at home with your partner, tensions might already be high.
Don’t let the stress and uncertainty of the situation fuel your arguments. If you start feeling heated over your different opinions, take a step back. When you’re already frustrated, arguing about it will undoubtedly let the stress you’re feeling make that argument worse.
Instead, agree to discuss things later when you both have clearer, cooler heads.
Doing so will let your partner know that you value an effective discussion, and you want to work through this with them rather than argue with them.
Maintaining Normalcy in Your Relationship
The reality is, there’s nothing “normal” about this pandemic. It has affected lives in ways we have never expected. Yet, your partner is still on your side. Even if you don’t always agree about handling the restrictions put in place, it’s essential to remember that you can still work things out and find common ground.
A difference of opinion on COVID-19 restrictions doesn’t have to be the thing that harms your relationship. If you’re having frequent disagreements about those restrictions, it could result from some other underlying stresses.
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If you’re struggling to work with your partner, contact us. We can talk about underlying emotions and get to the root of any issues you might be facing as a couple. Serenity EFTC provides couples counseling in Colorado.