Marriage Counsellor and Psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo

The friend zone happens when one person develops romantic feelings, while the other sees them only as a friend. This often occurs due to a lack of clear romantic intent or chemistry from the beginning, leading the other person to perceive the relationship as purely platonic.

Factors such as comfort, emotional dependence, or fear of ruining the friendship can also keep someone in the friend zone. Sometimes, it’s because the other person doesn’t feel a romantic connection, even if they value the friendship deeply. Miscommunication or not expressing feelings early on can further solidify this dynamic.

What are some of the ways to move out of the friend zone?

Here are some practical steps to help you move out of the friend zone as explained by leading couples’ therapists in Delhi NCR Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this blog.

Understand Why You’re in the Friend Zone

Before taking any action, it’s crucial to understand why you might be in the friend zone. This often happens when the other person sees you as a reliable friend, but there’s no romantic spark. You might not have made your romantic interest clear, or perhaps they don’t see you in a romantic light because of the dynamic you’ve created.

Step: Reflect on how the relationship has developed and what role you’ve played in it. Ask yourself if you’ve unintentionally sent out “friend-only” vibes.

Shift the Dynamic

One of the main reasons people remain in the friend zone is because they haven’t established romantic or flirtatious chemistry. To move out of the friend zone, you need to subtly change how the other person sees you. This could be done through subtle flirting, complimenting them in ways that go beyond friendship, or finding ways to create more intimate and romantic situations.

Step: Start small by complimenting them in a more personal, genuine way: “You look amazing today,” or “I love how passionate you are about your goals.” This signals your interest without being too forward.

Take Care of Your Own Life

Sometimes, people end up in the friend zone because they become too available and predictable. To break out of that cycle, you need to focus on yourself and your own life. Pursue your own interests, meet new people, and create a life that’s fulfilling without relying on their attention. This can make you more attractive because confidence and independence are key qualities that spark romantic interest.

Step: Invest time in hobbies, personal growth, and new experiences. Show them that you have a life beyond friendship.

Be Open About Your Feelings

At some point, if you really want to move out of the friend zone, you will have to express your romantic feelings. It’s important to do this in a calm and respectful way, without pressuring the other person. Let them know that you value the friendship, but you also have deeper feelings for them and want to be honest.

Step: When you feel the time is right, have an honest conversation. Keep it light: “I’ve been thinking about us, and I realize I have feelings for you. I just wanted to be upfront, but I also value our friendship no matter what.”

Respect Their Decision

The reality is, after you express your feelings, they might not feel the same way. If that happens, it’s important to respect their decision and not try to pressure or guilt them into a relationship. If they only want to remain friends, you’ll have to decide whether that’s something you’re okay with, or if it’s better to distance yourself.

Step: If they say they don’t feel the same way, respond with grace and respect. Don’t burn bridges or become bitter. Accept their feelings and move on if necessary.

Moving out of the friend zone is not a guaranteed process, and it requires patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to take risks. Sometimes, it’s possible to transition from a friendship to a romantic relationship, but it’s important to remain respectful of the other person’s feelings. Ultimately, whether or not you succeed, focusing on building a life you love and maintaining healthy relationships is always a win.

Gone are the days when we celebrated milestones privately with friends and family. Social media has transformed how we connect, and now a simple post or story often replaces intimate gatherings. While social media offers a convenient way to share our lives, it can blur the lines between what should remain private and what we choose to make public.

What things should you not post about your relationship on social media?

Relationship expert and Delhi’s leading marriage counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo, warns against oversharing, as it can sometimes harm the very relationships we’re trying to celebrate. Here are six things you should avoid sharing about your relationship online:

Avoid Seeking External Validation

Your relationship doesn’t need public approval to be meaningful. Constantly posting about it for likes or comments can add unnecessary pressure and reflect insecurity. Healthy relationships thrive privately without the need for a social media audience. Sharing too much can force emotions to grow based on external validation rather than letting love develop naturally between you two.

Get Your Partner’s Consent

Sharing photos or personal details about your partner without their approval can invade their privacy. Just because you’re in a relationship doesn’t mean you can share everything publicly. Always ask for your partner’s consent before tagging them in posts or sharing pictures. Respecting their comfort level is crucial to building trust and ensuring they feel valued. By doing so, you also strengthen your bond by showing that their opinions matter.

Don’t Post About Conflicts

Every relationship has disagreements, but venting about arguments on social media is a bad idea. Sharing conflicts publicly can hurt your partner and lead others to form negative opinions about your relationship. Online advice from friends, though well-meaning, may also cause more harm than good. Instead, resolve issues privately with your partner. Posting in moments of anger can lead to regret and long-term damage to the relationship.

Don’t Brag About Gifts

While it’s exciting to receive gifts, constantly posting them on social media can come across as bragging. Your partner might prefer to keep these moments private and may feel uncomfortable with the attention. Plus, trying to make your relationship appear more extravagant than it is can create pressure and unrealistic expectations. Instead of sharing every gift online, cherish these moments together without seeking validation from others.

Limit Frequent Status Updates

Constantly updating your relationship status online—whether it’s changing from single to in a relationship or making it “complicated”—can create unnecessary pressure. While it may feel gratifying at the moment, these updates often reflect instability and invite unwanted opinions from others. Focus on nurturing your relationship privately rather than publicly broadcasting each shift in your love life. What truly matters is the bond you share, not how others perceive it.

Don’t Post About Your Breakup

Breakups are hard enough without adding the complexity of social media. Posting about a breakup can lead to endless questions and amplify your feelings of sadness. Not everyone will respond positively, and you may regret sharing such a personal event. Instead, focus on healing privately and avoid publicizing the details of your breakup.

Let your relationship thrive away from the public eye. Avoid seeking external validation, sharing conflicts, or posting frequent updates. Respect your partner’s privacy and cherish special moments privately. Remember, the strength of your relationship lies in the bond you share, not in how it appears on social media.

Love is one of the most powerful emotions a person can experience, and it often manifests through subtle yet significant behaviors. When a woman is truly in love, her actions will reflect her deep affection and commitment toward her partner. Understanding these behaviors can provide insights into how she feels and her intentions in the relationship.

What are the signs usually shown by a woman that suggests she truly is in love with you?

Here are five behaviors that a woman usually displays when she is genuinely in love, says Delhi’s top marriage and family therapist Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this blog.

She Prioritizes Your Well-Being

One of the most common signs that a woman is truly in love is her concern for your well-being. She will often go out of her way to ensure that you are happy, healthy, and emotionally secure. Whether it’s reminding you to eat well, helping you through tough times, or simply lending an ear when you need to talk, she will be actively involved in your life. This level of care isn’t just about being attentive; it’s about wanting the best for you in every aspect of your life.

In love, she may make sacrifices to make your life easier or better. This doesn’t mean she’ll lose herself in the process, but her genuine care and effort to make you comfortable is a significant indicator of her feelings.

She Is Fully Present

In today’s fast-paced world, being truly present with someone is one of the most powerful ways to show love. A woman who is in love will give you her undivided attention when you’re together. Whether you’re having deep conversations or simply spending quiet moments in each other’s company, she will make you feel like you are the most important person in the room.

Her body language will also reflect this presence. She’ll maintain eye contact, lean in when you speak, and engage fully in the conversation. This genuine focus on you is her way of showing that she values your relationship and cherishes the time you spend together.

She Shows Unconditional Support

When a woman is truly in love, she becomes your biggest supporter. She will encourage your dreams and ambitions, even when they seem far-fetched. Her love translates into believing in you, sometimes even more than you believe in yourself. She will offer advice when you need it but will also give you the space to pursue your passions and make your own choices.

This support can also manifest during challenging times. Whether you’re dealing with work stress, family issues, or personal challenges, she’ll stand by your side. Her ability to be there for you through thick and thin is a strong indication of her love and commitment.

She Includes You in Her Future Plans

A woman in love will naturally begin to include you in her long-term plans. Whether it’s discussing future vacations, career goals, or even family planning, her thoughts of the future will often involve you. She will be eager to share her dreams and hopes for the future with you, and she’ll want to hear yours too.

This is a clear indication that she sees you as part of her life moving forward. The desire to build a future together shows that her love for you goes beyond the present moment and extends into the years ahead.

She Is Vulnerable and Trusts You

True love involves vulnerability and trust. When a woman is truly in love, she will open up to you about her deepest thoughts, fears, and insecurities. This openness isn’t a sign of weakness but rather a sign of trust. She feels safe enough with you to share her true self, knowing that you will accept her as she is.

Being vulnerable also means that she trusts you with her emotions. She’ll be honest about how she feels and won’t shy away from expressing her affection. This emotional transparency is a strong sign of her love because it shows that she’s willing to invest in the relationship on a deep, emotional level.

When a woman is truly in love, her actions will speak louder than words. From prioritizing your well-being to including you in her future plans, these behaviors reflect the depth of her feelings. If you notice these signs in your partner, it’s a good indication that her love for you is genuine and lasting. The key to maintaining such a relationship is mutual respect, communication, and reciprocation of these loving behaviors.

Money plays a pivotal role in relationships, and significant income disparity can sometimes lead to feelings of resentment. While financial differences are common, the key to avoiding resentment is fostering understanding, communication, and mutual respect between partners.

How can you navigate this sensitive issue without causing tension in your relationship?

Shivani Misri Sadhoo, one of the top couples therapists in Delhi and Gurgaon explains how to deal with such a scenario in this blog.

Open and Honest Communication

The foundation of any healthy relationship is communication. If one partner earns significantly more, it’s important to have open conversations about finances. Discuss how the income disparity makes both of you feel. Some may experience feelings of inadequacy or frustration, while others may feel overwhelmed by financial responsibility. Talking about these feelings in a non-judgmental way helps both partners understand each other’s perspectives, creating a sense of emotional safety.

Tip: Set aside time for regular money conversations, where both partners can share their thoughts and goals.

Avoid Power Imbalance

One of the main triggers of resentment is when the higher-earning partner holds financial control or power over the other. This can create a dynamic where the lower-earning partner feels dependent, leading to frustration. To avoid this, both partners should feel like they have an equal say in financial decisions, even if the contributions are unequal.

Tip: Create a shared budget where both partners contribute proportionally based on their income. This ensures fairness while maintaining financial equity in the relationship.

Respect Each Other’s Contributions

Money isn’t the only contribution that matters in a relationship. The partner who earns less may still be contributing in significant ways, such as taking care of the household, managing family responsibilities, or providing emotional support. It’s important to value these non-financial contributions and acknowledge them as equally important to the partnership.

Tip: Express appreciation for the unique strengths and efforts each person brings to the relationship, regardless of income.

Set Mutual Financial Goals

Working towards common financial goals helps both partners feel aligned, regardless of their individual incomes. Whether it’s saving for a vacation, a house, or retirement, setting goals together creates a sense of partnership. Both partners can contribute in ways that feel meaningful to them, fostering a feeling of teamwork.

Tip: Review your financial goals as a couple regularly, making sure both partners are actively involved in the planning and decision-making.

Focus on the Bigger Picture

Income differences should not overshadow the love and commitment you share. Avoid comparing your financial situation to others or using money as a measure of success in your relationship. Instead, focus on what truly matters—emotional connection, mutual respect, and shared values. When you concentrate on the strengths of your relationship, the income disparity becomes less significant.

Tip: Celebrate the milestones you achieve together as a couple, no matter how big or small.

Navigating income disparity in a relationship requires effort from both partners. By focusing on communication, mutual respect, and shared goals, couples can avoid resentment and build a stronger partnership. Remember, it’s not the amount of money that determines the success of a relationship, but the way you manage it together.

The first month of marriage is a unique and exciting time for newlyweds. It’s a period of adjustment, discovery, and laying the foundation for a strong, enduring relationship. Long-lasting couples understand the importance of this time and take specific steps to ensure their bond remains strong as they move forward together. Here’s a look at what successful couples often do during their first month of marriage to set the tone for a lifetime of happiness as shared by Delhi NCR’s top couple’s therapist Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this blog.

What things do long-lasting couples do during the first month of their marriage?

According to marriage counselor Shivani Sadhoo, things long-lasting couples do in their first month of marriage are:

Open Communication

One of the most critical aspects of a healthy marriage is communication. Long-lasting couples make it a priority to talk openly and honestly with each other. They share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns, ensuring that they are on the same page. This openness helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a sense of trust and security in the relationship.

During the first month, these couples often establish communication patterns that will carry them through their marriage. Whether it’s setting aside time each day to talk about their day or discussing their future goals and dreams, they make communication a cornerstone of their relationship.

Spending Quality Time Together

The first month of marriage is a special time to build memories and deepen the bond. Long-lasting couples make the most of this period by spending quality time together. This doesn’t necessarily mean elaborate dates or expensive outings. It can be as simple as cooking together, taking walks, or enjoying a movie night at home.

By prioritizing time together, they strengthen their connection and create a strong foundation for their marriage. This quality time helps them understand each other better and reinforces the love and commitment they share.

Setting Boundaries and Expectations

Every couple comes into marriage with their own set of expectations and boundaries. Long-lasting couples understand the importance of discussing and setting these early on. Whether it’s about finances, household responsibilities, or social interactions, having clear boundaries helps prevent conflicts later on.

During the first month, successful couples take the time to discuss their expectations for the relationship. They talk about their roles, responsibilities, and how they will handle challenges that may arise. This proactive approach helps ensure that both partners feel respected and understood.

Fostering Physical Intimacy

Physical intimacy is a vital aspect of a marriage. Long-lasting couples prioritize this aspect of their relationship from the very beginning. They understand that physical affection is not just about physical intimacy but also about maintaining a close, loving connection.

During the first month, these couples often explore each other’s needs and desires, ensuring that both partners feel satisfied and cherished. They make time for intimacy, whether through affectionate gestures, cuddling, or simply being close to each other. This focus on physical connection helps build a strong emotional bond that lasts throughout their marriage.

Being Supportive and Encouraging

Marriage is a partnership, and long-lasting couples know the importance of supporting and encouraging each other. In the first month, they make a conscious effort to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Whether it’s in their personal goals, careers, or hobbies, they offer support and encouragement.

This mutual support helps build a strong foundation of trust and respect. It shows that they are committed to each other’s growth and happiness, which is crucial for a lasting relationship.

Maintaining a Sense of Humor

Marriage comes with its challenges, and long-lasting couples know the importance of maintaining a sense of humor. They don’t take themselves too seriously and find ways to laugh together, even when things don’t go as planned.

In the first month, these couples often face minor challenges as they adjust to married life. Instead of letting these moments cause tension, they use humor to diffuse potential conflicts and keep things light-hearted. This ability to laugh together strengthens their bond and makes it easier to navigate the ups and downs of marriage.

The first month of marriage is a crucial time for newlyweds to set the tone for their future together. Long-lasting couples understand this and take specific steps to ensure their relationship remains strong and healthy. By focusing on open communication, spending quality time together, setting boundaries, fostering physical intimacy, being supportive, and maintaining a sense of humor, they build a solid foundation for a lifetime of happiness. These actions, taken in the early days of marriage, pave the way for a fulfilling and enduring relationship

Relationships are built on trust, communication, and understanding. However, even the healthiest relationships encounter disagreements. While it’s normal to have differences of opinion, turning these differences into a battle over who’s right can be harmful. When couples focus more on winning an argument rather than resolving the issue, it can create unnecessary tension and weaken the bond between them.

This article from one of the top couples therapists in Delhi and Gurgaon, Shivani Misri Sadhoo, explores why fighting over who’s right is the wrong approach in relationships, and offers insights on how to handle disagreements more constructively.

Does Being Right Really Matter?

In the heat of an argument, it’s easy to get caught up in proving that you’re right. But is being right more important than maintaining harmony in your relationship? When both partners are determined to win an argument, the focus shifts from resolving the issue to asserting dominance. This can lead to hurt feelings, resentment, and a breakdown in communication.

Answer: No, being right doesn’t necessarily matter in the grand scheme of a relationship. What’s more important is understanding your partner’s perspective and finding a solution that works for both of you. Prioritizing the relationship over your need to be right can lead to healthier communication and a stronger connection.

What Are the Consequences of Trying to Win an Argument?

When you’re fixated on winning an argument, the relationship becomes a battlefield where each partner is more concerned with defending their position than listening to the other. This can lead to a cycle of conflict where neither partner feels heard or valued.

Answer: The consequences of trying to win an argument can be damaging to the relationship. It can lead to feelings of alienation, as one partner may feel dismissed or invalidated. Over time, this can erode trust and intimacy, making it harder to resolve future conflicts. Instead of strengthening the relationship, the constant need to be right can create emotional distance and resentment.

Why Fighting Over Who’s Right Is the Wrong Approach?

Fighting over who’s right in a relationship is counterproductive because it shifts the focus from collaboration to competition. Here’s why this approach is harmful:

It Undermines Mutual Respect: In a healthy relationship, both partners should feel respected and valued. When you’re constantly trying to prove that you’re right, it can make your partner feel disrespected and undervalued. This can lead to a power struggle, where one partner feels the need to assert dominance over the other. Over time, this dynamic can erode the mutual respect that’s essential for a healthy relationship.

It Creates Emotional Distance: Arguments that focus on who’s right often leave both partners feeling frustrated and disconnected. When you’re more concerned with winning an argument than understanding your partner’s feelings, it creates emotional distance. This distance can make it harder to connect on an emotional level, leading to a breakdown in communication and intimacy.

It Hinders Problem-Solving: The goal of any disagreement should be to find a solution that works for both partners. However, when the focus is on who’s right, it becomes difficult to find common ground. Instead of working together to solve the problem, each partner becomes entrenched in their position, making it harder to reach a resolution. This can lead to unresolved issues that continue to cause conflict in the relationship.

It Damages Emotional Safety: Emotional safety is crucial in a relationship, as it allows both partners to be open and vulnerable with each other. When arguments revolve around being right, it can create an environment where one or both partners feel unsafe expressing their true feelings. This lack of emotional safety can lead to bottled-up emotions, which can eventually result in more significant conflicts or emotional withdrawal.

It Reduces the Joy of Being Together: A relationship should be a source of joy, comfort, and companionship. However, when disagreements turn into battles over who’s right, it can drain the joy out of being together. Constant arguments and the pressure to be right can make the relationship feel more like a competition than a partnership. This can diminish the overall happiness and satisfaction in the relationship, making it feel more like a burden than a source of love and support.

By considering these additional points, it becomes even clearer why focusing on who’s right is the wrong approach in a relationship. The key is to prioritize understanding, respect, and emotional safety to maintain a strong and healthy connection with your partner.

We all know that life can really be mundane at times. As much as we’d like to imagine our relationships as an endless journey of excitement, reality often sets in, and things can get boring between couples.

The thrill of those first dates, the butterflies in your stomach, the late-night conversations that seemed to last forever—they can all fade into the background as the days turn into years. It’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that your partner will always remain the same as they were when you first met.

The level of curiosity, generosity, adaptability, and interest that was present in the early stages of your relationship can begin to fade if left unattended. But here’s the truth: Life is not a fairytale. You cannot always expect a “…happily ever after” without putting in the effort. It’s natural for relationships to change over time, and it’s quite common to grow apart as life’s responsibilities take over.

However, this doesn’t mean that the magic is lost forever. The romantic spark can be reignited, and according to one of the top couples counselors in Delhi, and Gurgaon Shivani Misri Sadhoo, there is a secret ingredient that can spice up your relationship and bring back the excitement you once had.

Are you curious to know what is the secret ingredient that could add spice to your relationship?

The Secret Ingredient: Friendship

Do you know the secret ingredient to a lasting and joyful relationship? While love, trust, and communication are essential, friendship is the true game-changer. Research shows that couples who prioritize friendship enjoy deeper connections, respect each other’s ideas, and handle stress better. They know each other deeply and embrace each other’s flaws, making them more resilient together.

What are the ways to spice up your relationship with friendship as the secret ingredient?

Lend Your Ears

You’ve probably heard countless times that communication is crucial for any relationship, but effective communication involves more than just talking—it’s about listening too. By truly hearing your partner’s perspectives and feelings, and working together to address them, you nurture a deeper connection.

This openness and understanding mirror the dynamics of a strong friendship, which is vital in spicing up your relationship. When both of you feel genuinely listened to and valued, it creates a positive feedback loop that enhances your emotional bond and adds excitement to your otherwise routine relationship. So, listen like a friend.

Be Adventurous

Rediscovering each other is a powerful way to reignite the spark in your relationship and infuse it with excitement and adventure. By revisiting activities that brought you joy in the past or exploring new ones together, you can create fresh, memorable experiences. Imagine the thrill of learning how to dance side by side, the creativity of taking a pottery class together, or the shared exhilaration of a hiking adventure.

Such activities not only rekindle the fun and intimacy that may have faded over time but also introduce a new layer of connection and romance. These moments of shared adventure will not only strengthen your bond but also add a dynamic, romantic touch to your relationship, transforming it from routine to revitalized and exciting.

Share Your Deepest Secrets

Remember how friends share every secret, including those they can’t with their parents? This same level of openness should extend to your relationship. Being transparent with your partner, just like you would with a close friend, fosters trust and deepens your connection.

It’s not always easy to be genuine, and even if you think you’re being real, you might be holding something back. Transparency is crucial for a strong friendship and an even stronger relationship. When your partner is also your best friend, the same rules apply: share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

This openness allows you to be vulnerable and show sides of yourself that you might not usually reveal. By being transparent, you not only demonstrate trust in your partner but also encourage them to trust you in return, sparking a renewed sense of intimacy and excitement in your relationship.

Distance is Important at Times

Sometimes distance can indeed make the heart grow fonder. Just as friendships thrive with personal space, so can your romantic relationship. By allowing each other time apart to pursue individual interests, you not only preserve your unique identities but also enhance your connection. This space helps keep the relationship vibrant and exciting, sparking the friendship and passion that might otherwise fade.

Words of Appreciation Mean A Lot

Remember how friends often express their gratitude with small thank-you notes for even the tiniest gestures? Take a moment to write a short note expressing gratitude for the little things your partner does—like passing you the salt at the table or finding a book you misplaced.

These small expressions of gratitude matter a lot. They show that you notice and value the little things your partner does. This simple act of appreciation can reignite the spark in your relationship and add excitement to the routine.

So, if you feel your relationship needs a boost, remember that friendship is the secret ingredient. Listen deeply, embrace new adventures, share your secrets, value personal space, and appreciate the little things. By infusing these elements into your bond, you can rekindle the excitement and joy in your relationship.

It’s not wrong to love your job. However, when your workaholic nature starts to encroach upon the delicate balance between your career and your relationship, it can create unseen rifts. Imagine a couple where one partner spends late nights at the office, bringing work home on weekends, while the other sits alone at dinner with a cold plate.

Over time, the warmth of their connection fades, not because the love isn’t there, but because the time and attention needed to nurture it have been sacrificed. Just like a garden unattended, relationships require consistent care and presence. Sharing success with your partner can be a beautiful bond, but only if you remember to share your time, laughter, and love just as fervently.

What are the signs that show your job is destroying your marriage?

India’s leading couples therapist, Shivani Misri Sadhoo shares 7 signs to watch out for that will help you identify if your job is killing your marriage.

Is Your Partner Discussing Work Even on Holidays?

When work consistently invades your home life, even on holidays, it can quietly undermine your marriage. Romantic evenings turn into discussions about deadlines, creating emotional distance.

Invitations for simple outings become overshadowed by unfinished tasks. This imbalance signals a need for nurturing your relationship beyond work, reminding you that love flourishes through shared moments, not just shared responsibilities.

Is there a Poor Communication?

Poor communication can often be a telltale sign that your job is taking a toll on your marriage. When work stress spills into home life, it can lead to feelings of being unheard or undervalued, creating a barrier between partners.

Instead of openly discussing emotions, you might find yourself bottling up frustrations, which can eventually erupt into conflicts at the most unexpected moments. Additionally, the pressure of work can cause you to engage in unhealthy communication patterns, such as arguing unfairly or resorting to passive aggression.

This breakdown in dialogue not only undermines the connection you share but also leaves both partners feeling isolated and frustrated, highlighting how job-related stress can silently erode the foundation of your relationship.

Are Conflicts Arising Due to Work Stress?

Conflicts and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, but when you find yourself arguing about issues that were never a concern before, it often signals deeper turmoil.

If you’ve experienced a recent change at work—like a new role, a challenging boss, or unexpected pressures—this stress can seep into your home life, causing irritability and tension with your partner.

This shift may manifest as unnecessary arguments, hinting that the weight of your job is not just affecting your professional life, but is also jeopardizing the harmony of your marriage.

Recognizing this connection is crucial; it’s a sign that work stress might undermine your relationship.

Are You Spending More Time With Coworkers?

Finding yourself connecting more deeply with your coworkers than with your spouse can be a glaring sign that your job is overshadowing your marriage. When work becomes your primary focus, shared interests and tackling challenges together at work can inadvertently create stronger bonds with colleagues, especially if they’re of the opposite gender.

This shift can lead to a disconnect at home, where the intimate connection with your spouse diminishes. If you find yourself confiding more in coworkers than your partner, it may be time to step back, reassess priorities, and rekindle the personal connection that initially brought you together.

Are You Missing Important Events?

When your job consistently sidelines you from your child’s significant milestones—like dance recitals, graduations, or championship games—it signals a deeper issue that can jeopardize your marriage.

Promising to attend but frequently breaking those commitments not only frustrates your child but also strains your relationship with your spouse, who feels your absence.

Prioritizing work over these meaningful moments can lead to regrets that linger long after the events have passed.

Is Your Spouse Ignoring You?

When your spouse increasingly tunes you out during discussions about feeling trapped at work or your latest reprimand, it’s a telling sign that your job might be harming your marriage.

Their lack of eye contact or distraction with other activities indicates stress, suggesting that your work woes are creating a growing emotional distance between you both.

Do You Desire To Be Left Alone?

Work-related stress can lead to emotional isolation, causing you to withdraw from your spouse in a bid for solitude. This avoidance can be detrimental to your relationship, creating misunderstandings and feelings of neglect.

If you find yourself consistently prioritizing work over connection, it may be a sign that your job is negatively impacting your marriage.

If you really cherish your marriage, pay heed to these signs. Balancing work and love demands conscious effort. Nurture communication, prioritize shared moments over work stress, and cherish the bonds that define your relationship. Remember, a thriving marriage thrives on presence, not just success at work.

Have you ever felt unheard, had your emotions suppressed, or found yourself constantly questioning your actions in a relationship? If so, you might be a victim of manipulation. Manipulation involves harmful influence over others, targeting their mental and emotional sides to achieve personal gain.

Manipulators create an imbalance of power, taking advantage of their victims to gain control, benefits, or privileges at their expense. They lie, make excuses, blame others, or strategically share selective truths to feel superior and powerful.

What are the ways to handle a manipulator impactfully?

There are tactics you can use to deal with a manipulator. Top couples therapist and relationship counselor in Delhi, and Gurgaon, Shivani Misri Sadhoo shares a few in this article. 

Do you feel you are being love bombing, and what to do?

When manipulators use love bombing, they shower you with excessive praise, attention, and gifts to create dependence and control. This differs from genuine affection, which seeks nothing in return.

Recognize love bombing by its overwhelming nature, especially early in relationships. Protect yourself by maintaining high self-esteem and healthy boundaries. Be wary of excessive flattery, redirect conversations to objective matters, and focus on facts over emotions. This helps you resist manipulation and maintain control.

Do you think a third person is being involved in how to Avoid Triangulation?

Another form of manipulation in relationships is triangulation, where one person involves a third party to avoid direct communication and manipulate situations to their advantage. To protect oneself, it’s crucial to recognize signs of triangulation early on. Address the issue openly with all parties involved in a group setting to promote clear communication and prevent further manipulation.

Establishing norms for transparent communication and addressing insecurities openly can create a safe emotional environment where both partners feel heard and respected.

Are you thinking you need to draw the limit?

Sometimes, saying, “That’s enough” does the trick. It is important to realize that setting clear boundaries is crucial in dealing with manipulators. By defining what behaviours you will and won’t tolerate, you can offer help without being taken advantage of. Keeping a journal of boundaries helps clarify your thoughts and strengthens your resolve.

Manipulators often exploit weak boundaries, so establishing firm limits protects your emotional well-being. Knowing where you end and others begin prevents manipulation, whether through overly rigid or overly involved boundaries.

Body Language Matters to protect yourself against manipulators

Did you know that your body language can reveal a lot about how you feel, which manipulators might use against you?

When dealing with manipulative people, be mindful of signs like crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, slouching, fidgeting, or speaking softly, as these can signal insecurity or submission. Manipulators often use intimidating tactics like standing too close, intense eye contact, or authoritative gestures to assert dominance.

To stay in control, maintain a relaxed posture, direct eye contact, and use assertive gestures. These signals show you won’t be easily manipulated and can help manage such situations effectively.

Are you being pushed into a guilt trip? Don’t feel guilty if you are a victim of manipulation

Say NO to Guilt-Tripping guilt-tripping is when someone uses your emotional connection to manipulate you into doing something, even if you haven’t done anything wrong.

It can strain relationships by making you feel stressed or resentful for not meeting their demands.

To handle a manipulator who guilt-trips you, assert your boundaries firmly and express your feelings clearly. Request that they ask for what they want directly, without emotional manipulation. Make it clear that you have the right to say no and that any agreement will be genuine, not coerced. This approach helps maintain balance in the relationship and reduces the stress and anxiety caused by guilt trips.

Be Calm when you are facing manipulation

Being aggressive doesn’t help when dealing with a manipulator. Instead, staying calm is key. Manipulators aim to provoke emotional reactions to control you, using tactics like belittling or intimidation.

By staying emotionally detached and practising self-regulation, you can frustrate their attempts. Plan your responses calmly to avoid getting caught up in their game of control.

This approach helps you maintain clarity and control over the situation, reducing their influence and preserving your peace of mind. While it is not easy to handle manipulators, understanding their tactics and employing proactive strategies can empower you.

By setting clear boundaries, maintaining emotional composure, and fostering transparent communication, you can safeguard your well-being and assert your autonomy in relationships, thwarting manipulation effectively.

How would you feel when you accidentally find out that your husband, whom you love dearly, is cheating on you? Once the initial shock wears off, you may find yourself cycling through various emotions, much like the stages of grief. Initially, there’s disbelief and perhaps a reluctance to accept the reality of the betrayal. Then, as the truth sinks in, pain and anger may set in.

But why do people cheat?

From a lack of attention or affection to deep-seated insecurities, the motivations for infidelity are myriad. It’s not just about physical transgressions; emotional betrayals cut just as deep. While men may reel more from physical infidelity, women often place a high value on emotional fidelity. So, what would you do in such circumstances? Should you forgive him or ignore it completely and let bygones be bygones?

How do you deal with your cheating husband?

India’s top marriage counselor, Shivani Misri Sadhoo answers your question in this article.

Verify The Facts First

First things first. Before jumping to conclusions, it’s crucial to gather solid evidence if you suspect your husband is cheating. Your gut feeling might be telling you something’s off, but you can’t accuse him without proof.

Take time to investigate: Is it innocent chatting or something more? Could it be work-related? Figure out the nature of his relationship with the other person. Look for concrete evidence like messages or meeting details before confronting him. Confirm your suspicions before taking action because wrongly accusing him can harm your relationship trust. It’s better to be sure than sorry.

Try and find out the reason

Once you’ve gathered the facts, exploring the real reason behind your husband’s infidelity is essential. It might be tough to ask and even tougher to hear, but understanding the root cause can be pivotal in moving forward.

It could unveil hidden relationship issues needing attention or reveal feelings of neglect or dissatisfaction. An open and honest conversation about infidelity’s catalyst can offer clarity and aid in both of your healing processes. Keep an open mind during this discussion to prevent your husband from shutting down or merely telling you what you want to hear.

Consider Your Feelings

When you discover your partner’s unfaithfulness, it’s important to prioritize your emotional well-being. Consider whether you feel comfortable sharing a living space with them as you process this betrayal. It’s okay to need space to think things through. If necessary, arrange for separate sleeping arrangements to give each other room to reflect. Take time to acknowledge and mourn the loss of trust in the relationship. Creating a safe environment to process these emotions is vital for your healing journey.

Don’t Look Back

There is no point in endlessly replaying conversations or questioning every detail when dealing with a cheating spouse. It’s natural to feel betrayed and wonder about what else may have been hidden, but dwelling on the past only leads to negativity and mistrust. Instead, focus on moving forward and healing, looking towards the future rather than getting stuck in hypotheticals. By working through the stages of healing and eventually forgiving both your partner and yourself, you can find peace and rebuild trust in your relationship.

Don’t involve the children

It is not wise to discuss your husband’s infidelity with your children. While it may seem tempting to seek revenge by exposing his actions, it can deeply affect your kids. They might not understand the complexity of the situation and could be scarred emotionally. Involving them could also make them feel scared and insecure about the stability of their family.

It’s important to shield them from this pain and turmoil. Keep things as normal as possible at home and refrain from involving extended family to avoid gossip and division. Instead of seeking revenge, focus on your own healing and well-being, for the sake of your children’s happiness and security.

It is quite clear from these steps that addressing infidelity in a relationship requires patience, understanding, and prioritizing emotional well-being. By verifying facts, exploring reasons, focusing on healing, and protecting children, couples can navigate this challenging journey with empathy and grace. If needed, seek support from a relationship counsellor or psychologist for guidance and resolution in processing and healing from infidelity.

Watch the Video on How to Heal from Infidelity.