Relationship Challenge: Respond to Criticism with Curiosity

Relationship Challenge: Respond to Criticism with Curiosity

If you feel criticized by your partner today, challenge yourself to pause and respond with curiosity. You don’t have to agree with their point of view—or how they said it—but approaching the moment with openness can shift the dynamic.

Responding with curiosity sounds like:

  • “Can you tell me more about what you're feeling right now?”

  • “I want to understand where you’re coming from, even if I see it differently.”

  • “Is there something underneath this that you need me to hear?”

When a partner feels heard—not necessarily agreed with—they’re more likely to feel safe, calm, and emotionally connected. And emotional safety is essential to building closeness in a relationship.

Creating an environment of openness doesn’t always lead to instant change, especially if negative cycles have been in place for a while. But over time, your consistent effort can foster trust, reduce defensiveness, and create space for healthier communication.

Related Resources:

Support for Building Healthier Relationships

If you're ready to improve your communication and emotional connection, explore:

We all need to feel heard—not agreed with—to feel safe and close to our partner.
— Julie Menanno

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Julie Menanno MA, LMFT, LCPC

Julie Menanno, MA is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Relationship Coach. Julie operates a clinical therapy practice in Bozeman, Montana, and leads a global relationship coaching practice with a team of trained coaches. She is an expert in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and specializes in attachment issues within relationships.

Julie is the author of the best-selling book Secure Love, published by Simon and Schuster in January 2024. She provides relationship insights to over 1.3 million Instagram followers and hosts The Secure Love Podcast, where she shares real-time couples coaching sessions to help listeners navigate relational challenges. Julie also hosts a bi-weekly discussion group on relationship and self-help topics. A sought-after public speaker and podcast guest, Julie is dedicated to helping individuals and couples foster secure, fulfilling relationships.

Julie lives in Bozeman, Montana, with her husband of 25 years, their six children, and their beloved dog. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, skiing, Pilates, reading psychology books, and studying Italian.

https://www.thesecurerelationship.com/
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