Six ways to deal with a possessive partner

Subtle acts of possessiveness may be dismissed as a sign of love, but an overbearing and controlling partner could make a relationship go entirely sour.

Some telltale signs of a possessive partner include lack of respect for your opinions, keenness to monitor and undermine your relationships with friends and family, or being unnecessarily suspicious of your actions.

Whether to salvage your relationship, or recover your self-esteem, here are six ways to deal with a possessive partner effectively;

Plan to talk about it

Planning ahead, on the proper time and place to discuss the issue is very important. It is advised you find a free time, when your partner is at his best moods to discuss this. You can also plan what to say, to avoid sounding judgmental. Plan to address the possessive attitude, and not attack your partner, or stir up arguments.

Starting the conversation

Rather than avoid discussing the problem, and playing victim, you need to start the conversation with your partner. Finding out why your partner acts the way he/she does will give you a glimpse into his mind, past experiences and insecurities. Ensure you stick to your initial plans while the conversation is ongoing.

Suggest realistic solutions

Having identified the reasons for your partners overbearing nature, proffer likely ways that can help stop a re-occurrence. Tell your significant other you’re willing to make the relationship work, and suggest how he overcomes his excesses.

Love and engage your partner

Build your partners trust by including him/ her in your decisions. Rekindle your love life with some expressive romantic gestures. This will in turn make your partner realize you place value on him/her. However, this is not a license for your partner to continue been possessive towards you.

Control your temper

As much as your partner may act irritable may be, try your best not to snap back immediately. Be the rational one who knows when and how best to respond to a matter. Speaking without anger will save you from saying hurtful words, you may later regret to your partner.

Know when to walk away

Having tried your best to save your relationship, you should also know when to let go, especially if your partner is not willing to address the problem, or still dismisses your concern as irrelevant. Staying with an unremorseful domineering partner may cost your happiness and self-esteem.