Summary

In this episode of Couples in Focus, Michael and Thomas discuss the importance of recognising overwhelm and stress in relationships, especially as the new year approaches. They explore strategies for managing stress, the role of partners in identifying each other's stress signals, and the significance of maintaining a positive presumption of intent in relationships. The conversation emphasises the need for self-awareness, communication, and mutual support to foster healthier relationships and navigate life's challenges together.

To learn more, visit https://coupletherapy.earth/ or https://findyourmatch.academy/

Takeaways

It's important to evaluate and make changes in relationships as the new year approaches.

Recognizing personal overwhelm is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships.

Partners can help each other identify stress signals and provide support.

Having a hierarchy of priorities can help manage stress effectively.

Positive presumption of intent can diffuse tension in relationships.

Communication about needs is essential for resource management.

Self-awareness is key to preventing overwhelm and burnout.

Taking time for self-care can improve relationship dynamics.

It's important to teach partners about individual needs and stress responses.

Mutual support and understanding can strengthen relationships.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the New Year Together

04:00 Recognizing Overwhelm and Stress

08:34 The Importance of Resource Management

13:04 Partner Support and Communication

17:17 Building a Foundation of Trust and Understanding

21:59 Resourcing Each Other in Relationships

30:22 The Importance of Self-Responsibility and Teaching Needs

34:15 Implementing New Habits for Relationship Growth

Even the strongest couples miss each other sometimes. A glance goes unnoticed, a comment gets brushed off, or one partner pulls away just when the other needs closeness. These are the moments where relationships either disconnect — or grow stronger.

In this episode, we talk about bids for connection: the small signals we send every day asking for attention, affection, or understanding. You’ll learn how to spot these bids, what happens when they’re missed, and how repair builds trust and emotional safety. Because thriving couples don’t get it right all the time — they just know how to find their way back.

For more, visit the couples therapy website and the online program.

Why do some couples seem to grow closer over time while others drift apart? In this episode, we explore the small, often unnoticed moments that make or break a relationship — the bids for connection.

Every time you reach out — with a glance, a question, a joke, or a touch — you’re offering a bid. Thriving couples recognise these bids and turn toward them; struggling couples miss or dismiss them.

We’ll unpack why these micro-moments matter so much, how to spot them, and what happens when they’re ignored. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or just starting out, this episode will help you see love not as grand gestures but as the tiny daily choices that keep your bond alive.

To learn more, visit my couples therapy website and the new online program