Our 13th blog post comes at a suspicious time, three days before Halloween. Pumpkins, potions, and parties… although maybe you and your partner aren’t on the same page when it comes to that last one. In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of couples’ negotiation when deciding whether to venture out for the spooky season or opt for a cozy night in of apple cider and Halloween movies.

Honesty is the Best Policy:

The foundation of any successful negotiation in a relationship is honesty. Each of you should openly express your desires and feelings regarding going out or staying in. Pretending you don’t care or have an opinion doesn’t do any good and delays genuine conversation. By sharing your preference, you lay the groundwork for a productive discussion.

Active Listening:

As important as it is to express your own wishes, actively listening to your partner’s perspective is equally vital to ensuring that both of you feel heard. Mutual respect for their thoughts and feelings enhances the negotiation process. Bulldozing their opinions is a big no-no, so make sure you are not showing judgment or criticism of their preference.

Compromise:

Compromise is the heart of negotiation, as both of you need to be willing to meet in the middle. If one of you desires a night out while the other prefers a night in, consider a compromise such as a party on the weekend followed by a cozy movie night on Halloween itself. Or home for trick-or-treaters and then going out. Pre-planning can alleviate the decision-making process as well. Discuss your plans earlier in the week, allowing you both to get used to the idea of going out or staying in.

Define Your Priorities:

Sometimes, the decision to go out or stay in can depend on priorities. What is the reason behind your preference? Is watching Hocus Pocus on Halloween a tradition? Are you just too tired from work? Are you seeking social interaction or adventure by going out? Understanding your shared goals can guide your decision-making process. 

Flexibility:

Lastly, be flexible and willing to adapt. Circumstances may change, and it’s important to be accommodating. If one of you has had a particularly challenging day at work, consider staying in for a relaxing evening. Or maybe the key to feeling better is a night out, when previously they wanted to stay in. Compromise is a continuous process.

The “go out or stay in” dilemma is a common scenario in every relationship, especially around Halloween, but it doesn’t have to lead to disagreements or frustration. Remember, the ultimate goal is to strengthen your bond and create memorable moments, regardless of where you spend your time together.