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The Importance of Regular Time to Talk – Maintaining Connection and Preventing Build-Up

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The Importance of Regular Time to Talk – Maintaining Connection and Preventing Build-Up

In today’s busy world, relationships are often challenged by time pressure and digital distractions. It is essential to intentionally create space for real communication. Regular conversations not only promote understanding and closeness but also prevent small misunderstandings from escalating into larger conflicts.

Zwiegespräche: Theory and Practice

The concept of “Zwiegespräch” refers to a dialogue between two people based on mutual respect and genuine interest. These conversations allow thoughts, feelings, and needs to be shared without either person feeling ignored or misunderstood. In practice, it means taking regular time to talk about daily experiences, goals, or personal concerns. Such dialogues strengthen emotional bonds and foster a deeper understanding of each other.

Insights from John Gottman

Relationship expert John Gottman emphasizes the importance of regular conversations for relationship stability. In “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work,” he recommends spending at least 20 minutes daily talking with each other to share experiences and maintain connection. He describes these conversations as “rituals of connection” that help strengthen the relationship and detect conflicts early (Gottman & Silver, 2015).

Esther Perel on Artificial Intimacy

Therapist Esther Perel warns about the rise of “artificial intimacy” caused by digital communication. While technology makes connection easier, it can replace deep, authentic interactions, leading to superficial relationships. True intimacy arises only through face-to-face encounters where emotions are authentically shared. Perel stresses the importance of creating real-life spaces for connection (Perel, 2017).

Therapy as a Space for Real Connection

In therapy, it is essential to help clients create genuine spaces for communication. Without regular, open conversations, even the best therapeutic interventions lose impact. Therapy should not only serve as a place for problem-solving but also as a place to learn and practice new communication habits. Only then can sustainable changes in relationships and personal well-being occur.

Conclusion

Regular, authentic conversations are the foundation of stable relationships. They help maintain closeness, detect conflicts early, and strengthen the connection. In a world dominated by digital interactions, the value of personal communication cannot be underestimated. Systemic therapy can support individuals in establishing these spaces and deepening their relationships.

References

Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.
Perel, E. (2017). The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity. Harper.