Icebreakers
Find out what's on your partner's mind, share what's on yours, and get insights from other couples. We ask what you might not think to.
Have a suggestion for an Icebreaker?
Submit it here.
Related Icebreakers
What's the sexiest article of clothing you own?
What is the hardest event that you have endured with your partner?
What's something (good or bad) that your parents did in their relationship that you do in yours?
Are you a light or heavy sleeper? How about your partner?
Are you a pack rat? How about your partner?
+ 10
When you are in need of encouragement, what is the best way to let your partner know?
Ask your friends
Copy link
Answered by 
I don't know
I just ask - tell him I'm feeling nervous or anxious. He does his best to allay my fears!
I agree. LM
Male, >50 years, Married, OH, US | Dec 20, 2011
Male, >50 years, Married, OH, US | Dec 20, 2011
Sign in to add a comment.
Text him
I just tell her. But it also depends on what's happening in her life. If she is having a hard time, then I don't want to add to that. Sometimes when people are stressed and everyone seems to want something from you. So by me asking I'm just adding to the wanting something from her. I totally understand that! So I try to see that. If so then I don't ask or say. It's kinda a balancing act. I try to take all feelings into consideration.
I'm right there with you on that, I don't want to add to the burdens she already has.
Male, 41-50 years, Engaged, PA, US | Dec 22, 2011
Male, 41-50 years, Engaged, PA, US | Dec 22, 2011
Yes it can be tough. I always want to express myself. But there are those times when her feelings/problems are more important to me then my needs. Honey your needs will always come first for me. Sometimes it may not feel that way. But it is. Sometimes i speak my own feelings as soon as i feel them & i dont take the time to consider what your going through. For that i am sorry. I try to always be understanding & compassionate.
Male, >50 years, Dating, WA, US | Dec 22, 2011
Male, >50 years, Dating, WA, US | Dec 22, 2011
Sign in to add a comment.
Tell him. As much as we think they can, guys cannot read minds. So the fastest way to get what you need is to simply ask for it.
Amen!
Female, 41-50 years, Dating, CA, US | Dec 19, 2011
Female, 41-50 years, Dating, CA, US | Dec 19, 2011
Sign in to add a comment.
I don't think I'd ask directly. I am more likely to mention the situation that I'm in, and hope I'd get the encouragement.
I would hope that he would either a) be full of encouragement so that I'm never lacking in that dept or b) be able to tell that I needed it without me having to say anything. That being said, realistically the best way is probably just to tell him.
Best way-communication
My wrong way-shy away and pout
My wrong way-shy away and pout
Idk. Telling him doesn't work. He's sorta oblivious to what I need. Definately not his area of expertise.
My bf is the same way, I've gotten around this by literarily having to tell him when I'm upset or feeling blue. But hey, they try lol
Female, 36-40 years, Dating, CA, US | Dec 19, 2011
Female, 36-40 years, Dating, CA, US | Dec 19, 2011
Lol, appreciate it.
Female, 41-50 years, Engaged, TX, US | Dec 19, 2011
Female, 41-50 years, Engaged, TX, US | Dec 19, 2011
Sign in to add a comment.
It's hard when you are both geographically separated, and work opposite shifts. I try to le her know but don't even know if she gets the message, or 'gets the message'
I don't need to let her know. She always seems to know what to say and when. That's love.
Shouting to his face that I need encouragement :D
I just tell him! I'm not very good with hints.
Sometimes I pout or act grumpy or even complain. When I get discouraged I don't tend to ask for encouragement, I "take it out" on those around me. She takes it really well most of the time and I really appreciate her for it.
These questions suck, I have to admit to doing the wrong things a lot and change them!!!!
I have to fix this.
These questions suck, I have to admit to doing the wrong things a lot and change them!!!!
I have to fix this.
All the time. Just tell her.
