There are times we all face adversity and hardships. Being there for your partner during the toughest times helps cement your bond, trust, and elevate your relationship.

The goal is to create a relationship that promotes as much mutual love and support as much as possible.  

A Soft Place to Land

A soft place to land is the place you can let down walls and break down without fear of judgment or backlash. 

You want your relationship to be a place where you can admit your faults, fears, or regrets.

It’s important to feel comfortable and safe going to your partner for acceptance and support and visa versa.  

How to Be the Soft Place

Being your partner’s soft place to land is important for building and maintaining a strong relationship. As you master this connection, you will effectively learn to trust each other more and become a solid support system for each other. Not only this but being there for each other meets a deep need in all of us to belong and feel securely attached.

So, how can you be a partner’s soft place to land?

Listen Actively and Attentively

When it comes to being a soft place to land, it’s essential that you are a good listener. Let your partner talk and fully communicate their feelings. Don’t interrupt, be present and engaged. Sometimes, they just need a shoulder to cry on, or they may just need to be heard and validated. They do not always need or want a solution.

Avoid Being Judgmental

Try not to be judgmental when your partner opens up. Listen to their thoughts, fears, and feelings with an open mind. Avoid dismissing, minimizing, or making light of your partner’s perspective when they are sharing. This could lead them to internalize their feelings in the future or create anxiety about interacting with you moving forward; both leading to disconnection.

Offer Emotional Safety & Understanding

If you want to be a soft place for your partner to land, let your partner know that you love them unconditionally. Share that you see and hear them. Be as reliable, trustworthy, and receptive as you can to grow a deeper bond. Validation and empathy are key here.

Be Willing to Forgive

If there was an issue between the two of you, practice forgiveness. We all make mistakes. Remind them of your commitment and willingness to forgive. Forgiveness does not mean the behavior was acceptable or that you are agreeing it can happen again. A healthy relationship goal is the willingness to move forward from past mistakes without lingering resentment.

In sessions we openly communicate each person’s needs and any disconnections. Couples can practice these skills at home and find the resolutions they are looking for. If you are interested in learning more about how therapy can help you, contact me so we can get you on the same page.