It is easy to ask your partner about their day and then tune them out, so you forget important details later. This may make them feel a lack of support.
Supportive relationships require apologies when wrong: unfulfilled promises, wrongful accusations. Apologize and show understanding.
This means silencing your phone and avoiding checking your email when your partner wants to discuss something that is important to them.
Things may seem to be going well, but having a weekly conversation about how things are going and whether they need more or different support from you can prevent small problems from becoming big issues.
Do not become angry or complain when your partner shares with you a stressful situation or challenge they are facing.
Take time to praise your partner for their accomplishments, and remind them that you appreciate the things they do for you.
Take time to sit down and talk about your partner’s hopes, dreams, and goals for the future. This shows your partner that you support them in growing and becoming the best version of themselves.
You can practice thoughtful acts such as taking your partner’s car through the car wash when you are out, or taking on an extra chore they usually do.
They may occasionally do something differently than you would, but chastising them for it shows a lack of support.
You may be uncomfortable with your spouse or significant other’s unpleasant emotions, but telling them, “Don’t be upset,” can make them feel unsupported.