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Season 2 Episode 3: Normalizing Relationship Friction: Common Questions Couples Are Afraid to Ask
Are you silently questioning if certain thoughts and feelings in your relationship are normal? You're not alone. We're diving straight into the questions that keep couples up at night—the ones they're often too embarrassed to discuss with friends.
First up: Is it normal to be annoyed with your partner? Living with another human being inevitably brings friction. The difference between occasional irritation and constant annoyance often marks the line between normal relationship friction and deeper resentment. When your partner leaves socks on your laptop or loads the dishwasher "the wrong way," remember there's a crucial difference between their intention and your perception.
What about enjoying time apart? Despite societal messaging that happy couples should want to spend every moment together, maintaining individuality is vital for relationship health. Having separate interests, hobbies, and social connections allows partners to recharge and bring fresh energy back to the relationship. The key is balance—couples should share meaningful experiences while still nurturing their individual identities.
We also tackle trickier questions: Is it normal to think about other people? To experience fluctuations in sexual desire? What about when only one partner seems invested in working on the relationship? Throughout the discussion, we emphasize that many experiences commonly viewed as relationship "red flags" are actually normal variations of human connection that can be navigated with open communication.
Through practical advice like implementing regular "state of the union" meetings and recognizing when professional help might benefit your relationship, we're providing tools to strengthen your connection. After all, acknowledging these common challenges is the first step toward building a more resilient partnership.
Want to feel validated in your relationship experiences and gain practical strategies for a stronger connection? Listen now, and join the conversation about what's truly normal in lasting relationships.
Dr. Jenna and Dr. Nari are the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists behind the Coupled Podcast. They both have private practices where they work with individuals, couples, and families in Florida. The two are ready to shake up the world of couples therapy and want to extend resources beyond the couples they see in their private practices.
If you like this episode and want to know more about taking the next step to improve your communication, connection, and intimacy, head over to our websites to learn more about our Staying Coupled and Getting Coupled courses. These online courses give you the flexibility to improve your relationship from the comfort and convenience of your home. The Staying Coupled course is for couples who want to do the work to connect, communicate, and have the healthiest relationship possible. The Getting Coupled course is for premarital couples wanting to learn the essentials for a successful marriage. Topics in both courses include the main issues couples face:
For more information, visit drjennascott.com/courses or drnarijeter.com/courses
Disclaimer: This podcast is not a substitute for therapy. If you’re struggling, we encourage you to seek support from a licensed therapist in your state. Our relationship suggestions and content may not be applicable or advised for relationships with intimate p
