‘He may not love me completely’: When Katrina Kaif opened up about her ‘greatest’ relationship fear

She also confessed that she was not as close to Kapoor’s family, and wanted to work on it. “I am not as close to Ranbir’s family as I would like. But I would like to hang out with them more. Family would be a defining factor when I make the decision to marry. I am a very responsive person. So, if my partner gives me what I need, I can be the best girlfriend you can wish for,” she revealed. 

While common in many relationships, these doubts highlight how ‘what-if’ scenarios can create unnecessary stress and self-doubt. Managing such anxieties is essential to cultivating a healthy relationship, as is fostering a bond with your partner’s family.

Effectively addressing ‘what-if’ scenarios in relationships

Jasneet Kaur, mental health expert and co-founder of Unfazed Therapy, tells indianexpress.com, “‘What-if’ scenarios can be a real trap in relationships, so it’s important to find ways to address them effectively and avoid unnecessary stress. First of all, talk to your partner about your worries. They may be able to reassure you, and this can help build a stronger relationship.”

She continues, “Remember that you can’t predict the future. There’s no way to know what will happen; trying to control everything can lead to more stress and uncertainty. Sometimes, replacing ‘what if’ thoughts with alternative perspectives can help. For example, instead of thinking, ‘What if my partner doesn’t really love me?’, try thinking, ‘This is not an absolute truth. I will clarify the situation, and I know I’m worthy of love.’”

Building confidence in your partner’s love requires open communication, trust, and a lot of self-awareness. (Source: Freepik)

Focusing on the present moment

Kaur stresses, “Building confidence in your partner’s love requires open communication, trust, and a lot of self-awareness. Sharing vulnerabilities with them without blame, such as expressing insecurities, effectively reinforces trust.”

 If trust has been shaken, rebuilding it involves clarity, consistency, and sometimes the simplest things, like weekly date nights, to foster emotional closeness, she adds. “Challenge negative beliefs and reframe your thoughts about love by focusing on evidence of your partner’s care, such as kind gestures, and letting go of the need to control future outcomes.” 

Strengthening relationship with a partner’s family

“Strengthening a relationship with your partner’s family requires openness, respect, and balance. You can view this as an opportunity for connection by showing genuine interest in their traditions and stories. Embracing them with curiosity rather than judgement, while also setting clear personal boundaries to maintain healthy interactions, can be challenging but beneficial,” recommends Kaur

She states it is also important to seek your partner’s support to navigate sensitive relationship dynamics effectively. “Building connections with family members individually can further strengthen ties. Finding common interests or spending one-on-one time — such as joining a sibling or cousin for lunch or attending an event with a parent — can be valuable.”