You can read a million books and still not be able to act or change.  Knowledge is critical – without it we are ignorant, and when ADHD is involved knowledge is indeed power.  But knowing is not everything.  In order to succeed, you must also be empathetic and think with your heart.  It is when you start doing this that your partner understands, inside him or herself, that there is a deep well of love upon which change can be made.

What happens if you have a partner who is not easily empathetic?  Sometimes this is too ingrained, either physiologically or habitually, to change.  But often I observe couples who have an non-sympathetic partner whose lack of empathy is based upon feeling besieged or attacked.  It’s not safe to be empathetic in the relationship.  Once the other partner in the relationship starts behaving more kindly, it may become safe enough to risk warmth and empathy.  And, indeed, I’ve seen just this happen many times.  It can result in real breakthroughs.

What does this mean for you?  I would urge you to look inside yourself and ask if you have hardened against your partner.  If so, consider ways to become more welcoming and warm.  That might include a gratitude journal, counseling, meditation, developing conflict intimacy skills, or just plain listening with an open heart.

Don't Miss Out: My Live Seminar and non-adhd groups start in October. Learn more.

You can find great resources for couples impacted by ADHD at adhdmarriage.com, including free: Online treatment overview; Downloadable chapters of my books; A community forum with other couples facing similar issues; A large number of blog posts on various topics; Referrals. Adult ADHD can have a huge impact on your relationship. ADHDmarriage.com can literally change your life!  

Resources

Is your relationship in trouble? Consider my highly acclaimed couples' course: ADHD Effect In-Depth Couples' Seminar - This 8-session phone seminar has helped many couples thrive in healthier, happier relationships. The live session starts October 21, 2019.

Support Tele-groups - Be part of a community exploring similar issues; learn from each other's successes and struggles; and find new, more effective ways to be your best self in your relationship: Non ADHD Partner Support Tele-group and ADHD New Habit Coaching Group.

How to Optimize Treatment for Adult ADHD - go to the home page for a free download about the best ways to manage ADHD.

Question? Contact Melissa.

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