How To Stop Comparing Your Relationship To Others

How can my spouse and I avoid comparing ourselves to others?

Comparing your relationship to other relationships, whether they be relationships of your friends on the outside or relationships to a past lover, never works. Even if your comparison is that you are so much better than that person. Unfortunately, what happens in most comparisons is we are telling our partner they are less than something. Comparisons don't work in marriage. It's like being on the same team and then having other people come between you and push you apart. You're number one. Your marriage is number one. When you compare, it divides you. If you feel that your partner is comparing you, it is important for you to tell your partner it hurts: "I don't like this. You need to know this doesn't feel good to me." Sit down with your partner. Stick to "I" statements. "When you compare me to others, it hurts me. I feel sad. I feel like you don't love me, appreciate me or care for me. Please give your attention to me and don't compare."