In our lives, we encounter countless opportunities to communicate our desires, wishes and needs to those closest to us. Yet, why is it that when it comes to the most important person in our lives — often our romantic partner — we tend to find it incredibly difficult to ask for these things? For better or worse, it's a common struggle. Let’s talk about the reasons behind the challenge and explore practical ways to overcome it.
Vulnerability and fear
Expressing our needs can make us feel vulnerable, since it requires us to open ourselves up emotionally. Fear of rejection or judgment can prevent us from mustering the courage to ask for what we want. It's normal to feel this way, and I get so many questions daily from friends, clients and strangers asking, “How do I tell my partner [insert need not being met]?”
