

{"id":106273,"date":"2024-12-12T09:32:35","date_gmt":"2024-12-12T09:32:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=106273"},"modified":"2025-09-25T07:14:33","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T07:14:33","slug":"build-and-maintain-supportive-relationships","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/build-and-maintain-supportive-relationships\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Powerful Ways to Know How to Be a Supportive Partner"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111333\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-are-tensed.png\" alt=\"Couple are tensed.\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being there for someone you love isn&rsquo;t always about grand gestures&mdash;it&rsquo;s in the quiet moments, the late-night talks, the &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve got you&rdquo; energy that says more than words ever could. Relationships thrive on support that feels safe, steady, and real&hellip; not perfect.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether your partner&rsquo;s having a tough day or just needs someone to laugh with, your presence matters more than you may realize. And yes, it&rsquo;s a learning curve&mdash;figuring out how to be a supportive partner takes time, patience, and heart.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But when you show up with empathy, even in small ways, it can change everything&mdash;for both of you.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-does-emotional-support-mean-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>What does emotional support mean in a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Emotional support in a relationship is the foundation that keeps couples connected during life&rsquo;s highs and lows<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It&rsquo;s the ability to show empathy, provide reassurance, and stand as a pillar of strength when your partner needs it most.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC7848131\/#:~:text=Using%20the%20Actor%2DPartner%20Interdependence,how%20giving%20support%20is%20beneficial.\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reveals that couples who offer emotional and practical support to one another report greater satisfaction and resilience during challenges.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike material or physical assistance, emotional support focuses on creating a safe space where both partners feel valued, understood, and secure. <\/span><b>Supportive relationships thrive on open communication, active listening, and the willingness to prioritize each other&rsquo;s well-being.<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>A. Being present during difficult times<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Imagine your partner is feeling anxious about an important presentation at work. Instead of offering solutions, you listen attentively, acknowledge their feelings, and remind them of their past successes. This shows you&rsquo;re fully invested in their emotional journey.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing how to be a supportive partner means validating their feelings without judgment, making them feel seen and appreciated.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>B. Encouraging personal growth<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In a healthy relationship, supporting each other includes<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/46393297_Helping_Each_Other_Grow_Romantic_Partner_Support_Self-Improvement_and_Relationship_Quality\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">encouraging personal goals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. For instance, if your partner decides to pursue a new career path, being emotionally supportive could mean celebrating their milestones, offering encouragement during setbacks, and reminding them of their potential.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This reflects how to be a supportive girlfriend or boyfriend in a way that nurtures growth without overshadowing their individuality.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>C. Managing conflicts with care<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even during disagreements, emotional support matters. Instead of reacting defensively, take a moment to understand their perspective. This strengthens the bond and reinforces your commitment to how to be a supportive partner<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> even when times are tough.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-extending-support-to-your-partner-is-non-negotiable\"><\/span><b>Why extending support to your partner is non-negotiable?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111328\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-venting-out-thoughts.png\" alt=\"Couple venting out thoughts\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At its core, the definition of support in a relationship is about being a reliable source of strength and reassurance when your partner needs it most. It&rsquo;s not optional&mdash;it&rsquo;s the backbone of a healthy connection.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without it, even the strongest bonds can crack under the pressure of unmet emotional needs, leading to misunderstandings, resentment, and emotional distance.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>A research paper published in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/227944412_The_partner_as_source_of_social_support_in_problem_and_non-problem_situations\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Journal of Social Behavior and Personality <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">states that people feel less lonely when their partner supports them in daily life, even if that support doesn&rsquo;t always help during tough times.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive relationships aren&rsquo;t just about being there during the good times; they thrive on consistent effort during challenges, showing your partner they&rsquo;re never alone in facing life&rsquo;s ups and downs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&rsquo;s why support is crucial:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>It builds trust and emotional safety:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Without support, partners may feel isolated, unsure if they can depend on each other. This lack of safety creates emotional walls that are hard to break.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Prevents feelings of neglect:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When one partner doesn&rsquo;t feel supported, it can lead to feelings of being undervalued or taken for granted, weakening the foundation of the relationship.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Avoids unresolved conflicts:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A lack of support often escalates minor disagreements into major issues because the underlying need for reassurance is unmet.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stops emotional disconnection:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Over time, absence of support can make a partner feel distant or unimportant, leading to a lack of intimacy and connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5-benefits-of-being-supportive-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>5 benefits of being supportive in a relationship<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111330\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-supporting-each-other.png\" alt=\"Couple supporting each other\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When couples focus on supporting each other in a relationship, they create a space where love, trust, and understanding can truly grow. Learning how to be a supportive partner doesn&rsquo;t just help your loved one&mdash;it strengthens the bond you both share in lasting, meaningful ways.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being supportive in a relationship isn&rsquo;t just about being there for your partner&mdash;it&rsquo;s about creating a partnership that thrives on trust, understanding, and mutual growth.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you invest in supporting your partner emotionally and practically, the rewards ripple throughout your relationship, strengthening your bond and bringing out the best in both of you.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are five transformative perks of truly supportive relationships:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. It deepens your emotional connection like never before<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you consistently show support, you&rsquo;re telling your partner, &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve got your back.&rdquo; This shared sense of trust and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/emotional-safety\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emotional safety<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> fosters a deeper bond, making both of you feel understood and valued.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. It turns tough times into teamwork moments<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Life&rsquo;s challenges feel less daunting when you tackle them together. By being supportive, you transform struggles into opportunities to grow as a team, reinforcing your<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/resilient-relationships\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relationship&rsquo;s resilience<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. It boosts your partner&rsquo;s confidence and self-worth<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you cheer your partner on, they feel empowered to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles. Your belief in them can be a powerful motivator, reinforcing their <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/make-him-realize-your-worth\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sense of self-worth.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. It reduces unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive behavior minimizes feelings of neglect and frustration, creating an environment of patience and empathy. This makes it easier to navigate disagreements without letting them escalate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. It keeps the romance alive through mutual respect<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support is a form of love in action. By consistently prioritizing each other&rsquo;s needs, you maintain <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/mutual-respect-in-a-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mutual respect <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and admiration, which keeps the spark alive even during everyday routines.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-be-a-more-supportive-partner-7-thoughtful-ways\"><\/span><b>How to be a more supportive partner: 7 thoughtful ways<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive relationships thrive when both partners invest in each other&rsquo;s happiness and well-being. Whether you&rsquo;re helping during tough times or celebrating small victories, these seven thoughtful strategies can help you become the partner your loved one truly needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Truly listen without offering quick solutions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Listening is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to be supportive. Often, your partner doesn&rsquo;t need advice or solutions&mdash;they just want to feel heard and understood.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Active listening involves giving your full attention, empathizing, and validating their feelings. When you listen deeply, you&rsquo;re not only addressing their immediate emotional needs but also building trust.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The next time your partner shares something, resist the urge to fix it. Instead, say, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m here to listen&mdash;tell me everything.&rdquo; Nod, maintain eye contact, and reflect their emotions by saying, &ldquo;I can see how that would be so frustrating.&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>2. Celebrate their efforts, big or small<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111329\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-thankful-.png\" alt=\"Couple thankful\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appreciation fosters connection. Recognizing your partner&rsquo;s contributions&mdash;whether it&rsquo;s handling daily chores, achieving a career milestone, or simply being present&mdash;makes them feel valued.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/experts\/christiana-njoku\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Christiana Njoku LPC,<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A supportive partner knows how to commend you for each of your efforts, no matter how little it is.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small gestures of gratitude can create a ripple effect of positivity in your relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Notice one thing they&rsquo;ve done today and thank them sincerely. For instance, &ldquo;Thanks for cooking dinner&mdash;it made my evening so much easier.&rdquo; Pair it with an affectionate gesture, like a hug or smile.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>3. Be their constant source of encouragement<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everyone needs a cheerleader in their corner, and as a partner, that role belongs to you. Encouragement means being their loudest supporter and reminding them of their strengths when they face setbacks. By rooting for their dreams, you become an integral part of their personal growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ask them about their goals or passions. Offer practical support like brainstorming ideas or attending events related to their interests. Say, &ldquo;I believe in you, and I&rsquo;m here to help you succeed.&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Provide emotional comfort during tough times<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Life throws curveballs, and during those moments, your presence can make all the difference.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Christiana Njoku comments,<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having an emotionally available partner who is always ready to journey with you during challenging and difficult times is a great plus.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether they&rsquo;re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or defeated,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/emotional-intimacy\/ways-to-improve-emotional-support-in-your-relationship\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emotional support<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> involves showing empathy and reminding them they&rsquo;re not alone.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When your partner seems down, ask, &ldquo;What can I do to support you?&rdquo; Let them know you&rsquo;re there, even if they just need to vent or have someone sit quietly with them.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>5. Share the load, don&rsquo;t let them carry it all<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A strong relationship is about balance, and that includes dividing responsibilities fairly. When one person feels overburdened with chores or decision-making, it can lead to resentment. Sharing the load shows that you&rsquo;re a team, both in big challenges and small everyday tasks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Look at what they handle most often&mdash;cleaning, childcare, or planning events&mdash;and offer to take over one of those tasks. Say, &ldquo;Let me do this for you today. You deserve a break.&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. Practice patience during disagreements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conflict is inevitable, but how you handle it matters. Being supportive means staying calm and patient, even when emotions run high. Instead of reacting defensively, strive to understand your partner&rsquo;s perspective.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> During your next argument, pause before responding and say, &ldquo;I want to understand how you&rsquo;re feeling&mdash;can you help me see it from your side?&rdquo; This diffuses tension and strengthens communication.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><em>Watch this TED Talk by Roderick Jeter, who shares vital advice on how to stop arguing with your partner within minutes.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/K_rubJMw8EM?si=0_vD6WDzI7nUBiz1\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">&#65279;<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3><b>7. Be proactive about checking in with them<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111332\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-checking-in-with-each-other.png\" alt=\"Couple checking in with each other\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, support is about knowing when to step in without being asked. Regularly checking in on your partner&rsquo;s feelings and needs shows that you care, even during life&rsquo;s quieter moments.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Set aside time each week to ask, &ldquo;How are you really doing?&rdquo; These proactive conversations ensure you&rsquo;re tuned in to their emotional state and help prevent issues from building up.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>8. Respect their need for space and independence<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being supportive doesn&rsquo;t mean always being present&mdash;it also means honoring your partner&rsquo;s individuality. Everyone needs moments to recharge, reflect, or simply enjoy time alone. Respecting this space builds trust and reduces emotional pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When your partner seems quiet or overwhelmed, gently ask, &ldquo;Would you like some time for yourself today?&rdquo; Let them know it&rsquo;s okay to take breaks, and reassure them of your presence when they&rsquo;re ready to reconnect.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>9. Stand up for them when it counts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-111331\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Couple-spending-time-together.png\" alt=\"Couple spending time together\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being a supportive partner means having their back&mdash;not just in private, but in public too. Whether it&rsquo;s a family disagreement, a workplace challenge, or subtle dismissals from others, standing by them shows loyalty, respect, and emotional safety.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How to start:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If someone undermines or criticizes your partner unfairly, gently redirect the conversation or offer reassurance. Say something like, &ldquo;I really respect the way they handled that,&rdquo; or later tell your partner, &ldquo;I saw that moment&mdash;and I&rsquo;m proud of you.&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive relationships don&rsquo;t just happen&mdash;they&rsquo;re nurtured with care, empathy, and consistent effort. Whether you&rsquo;re navigating stress or simply growing together, a little understanding goes a long way. Here are a few quick answers to common questions about supporting each other in a relationship with love and intention.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>What does it really mean to be a supportive partner?<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being supportive means showing up emotionally, physically, and mentally&mdash;listening with care, offering encouragement, sharing responsibilities, and respecting each other&rsquo;s needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Can supportive relationships still have conflict?<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, all couples face conflict. What matters is how you handle it&mdash;with patience, empathy, and a focus on understanding instead of winning.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>How to be a supportive partner during stressful times?<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stay present, listen without judgment, and ask, &ldquo;How can I support you right now?&rdquo; Small acts of kindness go a long way under pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stronger-bonds-start-with-you\"><\/span><b>Stronger bonds start with you<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning how to be a supportive partner is a journey, not a destination. It&rsquo;s built on everyday choices&mdash;listening with your heart, showing up when it matters, and celebrating the little things. When both partners commit to supporting each other in a relationship, they create a foundation that weathers storms and deepens joy.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the end, supportive relationships aren&rsquo;t about being perfect&mdash;they&rsquo;re about being present, patient, and kind. And that kind of love? It grows stronger every day.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Being there for someone you love isn&rsquo;t always about grand gestures&mdash;it&rsquo;s in the quiet moments, the late-night talks, the &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve got you&rdquo; energy that says more than words ever could. Relationships thrive on support that feels safe, steady, and real&hellip; not perfect.&nbsp; Whether your partner&rsquo;s having a tough day or just needs someone to laugh with, your presence matters more than you may realize. And yes, it&rsquo;s a learning curve&mdash;figuring out how to be a supportive partner takes time, patience, and heart. But when you show up with empathy, even in small ways, it can change everything&mdash;for both of you. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1392,"featured_media":111333,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[11],"tags":[2512],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106273"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1392"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=106273"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106273\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":112791,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106273\/revisions\/112791"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/111333"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=106273"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=106273"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=106273"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}