On this episode of the Being Well Podcast, Dr. Rick and Forrest answer questions focused on navigating common relationship conflicts, focusing on situations where people need to find a middle path between different needs. The discussion covers balancing sensitivity with directness, bridging differences in emotional processing speeds, setting healthy boundaries without anger, and understanding how childhood patterns influence adult relationships. Throughout, they explore how couples can move from seeing issues as “me problems” to “we problems,” emphasizing the importance of being on the same team and strengthening connection.
Relationship Course: Rick’s 4-week online course The Strong Heart Relationship Series is a great way to learn how to navigate challenges with ease, foster deeper empathy, and cultivate resilience in your relationships. Learn more at rickhanson.com/online-courses/strong-heart/, and use coupon code BeingWell25 to receive a 25% discount.
Key Topics:
- 0:00: Introduction
- 1:50: How do I know if I’m being too sensitive or my partner’s being too harsh?
- 13:30: I need space to process; my partner wants to resolve things immediately. How do we bridge the gap?
- 20:55: How do I determine whether or not a relationship problem is a dealbreaker?
- 33:00: How can I discern between rumination and useful anxiety?
- 41:40: How can I honor my need for self-protection while maintaining my naturally open heart?
- 49:15: If parents have certain problematic traits, are their children more likely to develop those traits as well?
- 56:00: Recap of being on the same team in relationship conflicts
Forrest is now writing on Substack, check out his work there.
