When your partner is going through a tough time, you want to be supportive of them. It’s part of being a good wife or husband. This can be a little challenging when you can’t relate to what they’re going through so here are some tips to help you with that.

Listen to your partner

The worst thing you can do when you can’t relate to what your spouse is going through is trying to guess what they’re thinking or how they’re feeling. What you should do instead is ask questions and listen carefully. This helps you to understand your spouse’s perspective. It’s much easier to be empathetic when you put yourself in your spouse’s shoes.

Don’t tell your partner how to feel

When your wife or husband tells you how they feel, accept if for what it is even if you do not understand it. Don’t say things like “you shouldn’t be worried” or “you worry too much.” Such responses can make your wife or husband feel discounted and unimportant.

This also applies to situations where you have wronged your partner. It’s important to listen to how your spouse is feeling and apologize for making them feel that way.

Put your spouse’s needs first

Being able to put your spouse’s needs first even when you don’t understand what’s bothering them is a very important skill. The fact that your spouse needs your support should be enough for you even if you can’t relate to what your spouse is going through. It part of being a good wife or husband.

You won’t always be able to relate to what your spouse is going through but you can always support them. You can always be empathetic, supportive and a good wife or husband.