Women say men don't share their feelings…

Men say they don't get an opportunity to…

Most people find themselves grappling with the complexities of communication in their relationships. One of the most common frustrations is the perception that men don’t share their feelings as openly as women do. This can lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and a sense of emotional distance. When women get hurt because they don't feel their man is communicating, their walls go up and they pull back. This then creates relationship tension.

Let’s explore why this happens and how you can foster better communication and understanding.

The Communication Gap

First, it’s essential to recognize that men and women process emotions differently. While women may be more inclined to express their feelings verbally, many men have been socialised to internalise their emotions. This doesn’t mean they don’t feel deeply; rather, they may struggle to articulate those feelings. Understanding this difference is crucial in reframing your expectations and responses.

Layers of Emotion

Consider your relationship with your husband. If he finds it challenging to express his feelings, you might have interpreted this as a lack of interest or care. However, peeling back those layers reveals that his silence may stem from fear, pain, or a learned behaviour of emotional restraint. Many men have been conditioned from a young age to be stoic, leading them to retreat into themselves when faced with emotional challenges.

The Impact of Your Perceptions

The narrative you’ve built over the years about his emotional availability/unavailability can create a cycle of misunderstanding. When you approach him with accusations or expectations based on your feelings, it can reinforce his tendency to withdraw. Your words and reactions might have a profound impact on how he interacts with you, leading him to bunker down in his discomfort.

Cultivating Compassion

If you seek peace and a better quality of life, consider adopting a more inquisitive approach. Instead of viewing his emotional distance as a personal failing, try to understand the context of his behaviour. Why might he struggle to communicate? What fears or past experiences might be influencing his actions?

By developing empathy and compassion, you can create a safe space for him to open up. When men feel that they can express their feelings without judgment or pressure, they are more likely to share what’s inside.

Changing Expectations to Appreciation

Instead of focusing on what he isn’t providing emotionally, try shifting your mindset to appreciation. Acknowledge the efforts he does make, however small. This can help create an environment where he feels valued and more inclined to express himself.

The Path to Understanding

Ultimately, understanding why men communicate differently can be a transformative experience. It allows for greater compassion and kindness, paving the way for deeper connections. By seeking to understand rather than judge, you hold space for him to explore and share his emotions.

In conclusion, while it may be frustrating when men don’t share their feelings as openly as women do, remember that this difference is rooted in social conditioning, the difference between masculine and feminine energy and individual experiences. By fostering an atmosphere of safety and understanding, you can encourage more honest and open communication, enriching your relationships with deeper emotional connections.

So instead of judging your man for not speaking up, be understanding and create a safe space for him to do so.

Great communication is the key to a healthy relationship.

If you’re ready to create deeper emotional connection and healthier communication in your relationship, let’s have a chat.

✨ Book a free call with me today and let’s explore how you can build the relationship you truly desire.

With love and support,
Fiona May ❤️🙏🏼