Top 5 relationship insights from experts to better navigate love, conflict, and personal growth

Last year, many insights emerged that resonated with people across different walks of life, offering valuable lessons on maintaining healthy partnerships, overcoming obstacles, and nurturing long-lasting bonds.

Indianexpress.com has rounded up the top 5 relationship advice pieces from experts that stood out in 2024. Whether you’re in a committed partnership, navigating the challenges of dating, or focusing on self-love, these expert insights have provided clarity and inspiration for many. 

On families disapproving of relationships due to cultural differences

Gurleen Baruah, existential psychotherapist at That Culture Thing, explained the psychological and emotional challenges couples face when their families disapprove of their relationships due to cultural differences. Referring to the hardships late tabla maestro Zakir Hussain and his wife Antonia Minnecola had to face due to their backgrounds, she noted, “When families initially disapprove, couples often feel a deep sense of disappointment and psychological distress, especially in collectivist societies like India where familial approval is integral to identity. This creates a tug-of-war between personal desires and familial expectations, leading to feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and alienation.” Baruah emphasised that balancing independence with respect for family traditions requires open and mature conversations that foster mutual understanding.

This year, many insights emerged that resonated with people across different walks of life, offering valuable lessons on maintaining healthy partnerships, overcoming obstacles, and nurturing long-lasting bonds. (Source: Freepik)

Sustaining a marriage during a career slump

After Chunky Panday revealed that he married Bhavana while going through a low phase in his career, Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, spoke about the emotional implications of marrying during a career slump. She said, “Marriage during a career slump can act as a double-edged sword. While it provides comfort and support, it also adds pressure to regain stability and provide for the family.” Khangarot outlined strategies like regular check-ins, time management, and financial planning to help couples navigate both career challenges and marital commitments.

Experiencing true love more than once

Psychologist Anjali Gursahaney addressed the question of whether true love can be experienced multiple times, following Rekha’s viewpoint that true love happens only once. Gursahaney stated, “The belief that love is a once-in-a-lifetime experience is more rooted in romantic ideals than in psychological research. Studies show that love is complex and can manifest in various forms. People can indeed experience ‘true love’ with more than one partner, depending on timing, personal growth, and compatibility.”

Non-traditional relationship structures

In response to Javed Akhtar’s views on marriage being an overrated institution, Gurleen Baruah shared her insights on non-traditional relationship structures. She explained, “The impact of cohabitation or civil unions on emotional security depends on the individuals involved. Marriage provides societal recognition and stability, but for some, alternatives like companionship are more aligned with their values.” Baruah suggested that couples considering alternatives should engage in honest discussions about their relationship goals and values to ensure mutual understanding and satisfaction.

Respectful communication during conflicts

Ashutosh Tiwari, psychologist and director at MindGlass Well-being, discussed common mistakes people make during conflicts in relationships. He referred to Ananya Panday’s advice on observing how a partner treats you during a fight, noting, “When you introduce the secrets and weaknesses of others in a conflict, it falls under the category of personal attacks. Name-calling or labelling others with disrespectful terms is insulting. When you bring up past conversations and issues without providing a rationale and fail to respond to honest questions, it can also be a significant mistake during a fight.” Tiwari stressed the importance of methods such as active listening, taking breaks, and reflecting on the root causes of arguments to resolve conflicts constructively.

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