Episode 165: How to Not Shut Down

In most of the couples I work with, one person has a tendency to shut down in conflict. This creates a wall to connection and understanding. Shutting down, like any reactive behavior is a coping mechanism designed to protect you. However, it creates a block in moving your marriage forward in a better direction.In today's episode, I'm breaking down the 4 most common reasons this happens, and offering you solutions to help you break this unhealthy pattern. We dive into the mindset with specific beliefs to adopt as well as some initial steps to start taking now so that you can open up the lines of communication and have more productive conversations and resolution to your issues.This episode is a great listen whether you are the person who tends to shut down, or the person who is on the receiving end of the silence.Also mentioned in this episode is a portion of a talk I did on "How to Be Less Reactive". You can listen to that HEREAnd if you are looking for help and would like to work with me directly on communication issues, or any other topic that will create a better marriage, please visit my website: drchavonne.com to learn more about my individual and group coaching programs.