Unhealthy Competition & Relationships

Relationships that have unhealthy competitions can eventually lead to tense situations, uncomfortable experiences, and too many comparisons. Although there are other aspects that can make a relationship become damaged; Unhealthy competition can make one self-isolate, have self-doubts, and unmotivated in the relationship. Excessive comparisons and being unsupportive can make any relationship be more distant. As well as not making your partner feel safe, comfortable, and be themselves can be hurtful for one's emotional wellness. The lengthy tension and constant demonstrations of competition can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and less meaningful conversations of togetherness. 

Unhealthy competition can occur between both partners and with other couples. This can lead to strain and a constant struggle which can occur throughout the relationship. Depending on the situation and the intensity of the competition, things might get worse between you and your partner. To begin undoing and to repair an unhealthy relationship because of competition, it is recommended to stop competing with your partner. It is challenging especially if the competition was repeated throughout the relationship unconsciously. 

Think about how your partner felt as you competed during the relationship. Next, communicate the reasons why you competed with your partner. Practicing self-awareness, self-consciousness, and self-reflection can help to reduce the competitiveness with your partner. Unhealthy competition can also develop into disrespect, verbal abuse, and resentment. The toughest part of competition is that eventually both of you become emotionally distant. 

Feeling unappreciated, untrustworthy, and not being a supportive couple is detrimental. To avoid unhealthy competition one must identify, recognize, accept the reasons, and find professional help to repair the relationship. Do not blame each other for the unhealthy competition. Practice making a compromise and not making your partner feel less than. However, if your partner manipulates you and constantly does unhealthy competition; It is necessary to leave the abusive relationship for your emotional wellness. 

Abusive relationships with unhealthy competitions can make it difficult to understand, communicate, and to be together. Always leave an unhealthy relationship and never stay in the relationship because of loneliness or other reasons. Think about your safety and others. If you have children, take your children and yourself to the nearest shelter or to a safer place. Nonetheless, take care of your emotional wellness and your children's wellbeing. 

Practice communicating better if the unhealthy competition is because of a childhood experience, jealousy of a married friend, or other past experiences. Reduce the tense environment and do not compete for one's affection. Additionally, unhealthy competition can end a relationship. If both of you compete with other couples, tell each other about the reasons for the competition. Managing emotions and overall behavioral actions can help reduce unhealthy competition. 

Seek professional help individually and as a couple to avoid unhealthy competition. Make sure you and your partner agree to go to therapy and counseling. Sometimes giving a second chance and avoiding unhealthy competition can strengthen the relationship. Nonetheless, avoiding comparisons, unhealthy competition, and developing a healthy relationship can lead to a stronger mutual bond. Here are resources about unhealthy competition and relationships. 

 

20 Signs You are in a Competitive Relationship:

20 Signs You Are in a Competitive Relationship

Why Am I Competing with My Partner-Intimacy in Marriage-Intensive:

Why Am I Competing with My Partner-Intimacy in Marriage-Instensive

10 Signs You're in a Competitive Relationship (And How to Stop)-Relationships:

10 Signs You're in a Competitive Relationship (And How to Stop) - Relationships

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