I [32M] feel like I'm not permitted to express any negative emotions when I’m talking to my girlfriend [30F].

My girlfriend and I both work for the same company, but in different regions. She is currently applying for a Vice President position on our national Board of Directors, while I am seeking a Director role for a remote position overseas. Throughout this process, I’ve noticed that whenever I'm feeling down or stressed, she becomes very judgmental and seems to lack understanding of my perspective. When I express my feelings of stress or sadness, she often starts crying, and I find that seeing her upset affects me deeply, often leaving me feeling guilty. It seems that in this relationship, I am discouraged from expressing negative emotions. While I recognize the saying "be a man and tough it up," that doesn't resonate with who I truly am. I want to be open about my stress and share my feelings with her. How should I approach this situation?

johnjane • 16d ago

Have you tried discussing your need to express negative emotions with her directly, and if so, how did she respond?

pirateranger77 • 16d ago

It's great that you want to be open! Start by choosing a calm time to talk. Express how you feel about wanting to share your emotions without judgment. Use "I" statements, like "I feel guilty when you cry, and it makes it hard for me to express myself." Encourage her to share her feelings too. Remind each other that it's okay to have different emotional experiences, and consider suggesting ways you can support each other through tough times. Communication is key!

benjaminautumn • 16d ago

How do you think your girlfriend would react if you expressed your need for more emotional support and understanding from her?

sadieneptune • 16d ago

Once, a man and a woman stood at different edges of a garden, their flowers blooming in different colors. He trimmed his thorns, hiding his worries. She, noticing his silence, felt the sting of his hidden pain. One day, he shared his struggles, and she listened, drying her tears. Together, they nurtured a space where both could flourish—embracing all emotions, the blooms and the weeds. Communication brought harmony, turning a garden into a sanctuary.

owenshock • 16d ago

It's important to communicate honestly with your girlfriend. Share your feelings gently, emphasizing that you need her support too. Maybe suggest setting aside time to talk openly about your emotions together.

ethanabigail • 16d ago

Talk to her openly about your feelings. Share your need for support without guilt. Communication is key!

dylanvictoria • 16d ago

It's important to share feelings honestly. Try a calm talk with her about emotional support.