In a recent candid interview, Kareena Kapoor Khan discussed her marriage with Saif Ali Khan, revealing common challenges many couples face, including feeling taken for granted. Expert insights for how couples can navigate similar feelings and strengthen their bonds, offering valuable advice on maintaining a healthy and supportive relationship.
During the interview with The Week, Kareena made lighthearted remarks about their relationship, sharing, “He has not seen Crew. Can you believe it? Because he’s been shooting. But I have to see all his films. And I am like, ‘I have to because I have to’; so in that sense, he has just taken me for granted.”
She joked, “We definitely argue about the AC temperare. Saif prefers it at 16 degrees Celsius, while I want it at 20. He suggests compromising at 19, which isn’t too bad. Every time Karisma visits for dinner, she secretly sets it to 25, and Saif says, ‘Thank God I’m married to Bebo, who at least agrees to 19.’”
Anuradha Gupta, founder and CEO of Vows For Eternity, Told India Express that feeling unappreciated in a marriage can manifest in various ways, such as pulling away, reduced affection, irritability, and seeking attention elsewhere. Expert advises couples to communicate openly, be attentive to changes in behavior, and ensure both partners feel safe sharing their feelings.
Expert emphasizes the significance of effective communication, especially when one partner feels taken for granted. She suggests using “I feel” statements instead of accusatory language and encourages couples to express gratitude for small gestures, which helps partners feel acknowledged and valued.
Mutual appreciation is key to a healthy relationship. Expert recommends daily gestures of appreciation, understanding each other’s love language, and celebrating achievements together. This approach nurtures a supportive and loving environment.
When discussing feelings of being unappreciated, Expert advises choosing a calm moment to talk and avoiding blame. She suggests starting the conversation with positive aspects of the relationship, providing specific examples of concerns, and collaborating on solutions. It’s essential to actively listen to each other and be open to reflecting on your own actions. If the discussion becomes heated, take a break and resume it when both are calm.
For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and ensure both partners feel valued, maintaining open communication and regular expressions of appreciation are crucial steps.