White Frame Corner
White Frame Corner

How To Manage Expectations In A Relationship

Instead of focusing on the negative, make an effort to appreciate your partner's excellent characteristics.

PRIORITIZE APPRECIATION OVER EXPECTATIONS

Compassion is at the top of the list of qualities to look for in a partner.  To handle any relationship successfully, you must display compassion by prioritising your love over your expectations.

EXPRESS COMPASSION

Any connection, romantic or otherwise, is built on respect.  To show respect means to value the other person’s perspective and needs – this is the basis of effective communication.

SHOW RESPECT

Consideration - for your partner, their hobbies, and their relationship expectations - is essential in healthy relationships. 

DEMONSTRATE CONSIDERATION

Don't allow your relationship fade into the background - take the time to strengthen your bond during difficult times.

DEVOTE TIME TO YOUR PARTNER

When it comes to learning how to manage expectations in a relationship, one of the worst missteps you can make is questioning your partner’s intent.

NEVER QUESTION THE NATURE OF RELATIONSHIP

Change your approach if you're in a dispute with your partner.  If you don't, you run the risk of establishing a vicious circle in which neither party is heard, leaving both feeling defeated.a

AVOID REPETITION

Threatening your relationship with ultimatums is counterproductive since it stifles conversation.  If you're about to jeopardise your partnership, it's time to step back and reconsider the topic. 

NEVER THREATEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Learning how to manage expectations in a partnership is a lifelong process.  It's a continual conversation in which you check in to see if each other's needs are being addressed. 

DON’T STAGNATE

Don’t adopt other couples’ standards and expectations in a relationship – work with your partner to develop your own. Building a healthy partnership takes work, but it’s well worth the effort.

DON’T COMPARE