5 Steps to becoming an emotionally available partner

In any robust and healthy relationship, both parties are usually emotionally available.

In simple terms, emotional availability means being able to express and control one's emotions - it's the ability to develop a strong bond with your partner, it's the ability to demonstrate vulnerability without holding back.

You might think it's pretty easy to be emotionally available, but you'd be wrong. Some people have a hard time being emotionally available not only in their love life but also with their friends and acquaintances. Perhaps while they were growing up, they experienced some traumatic events and have developed this "steel" persona as a coping mechanism, but most times, these people end up having a series of casual relationships with no emotions attached, they hate commitment and find it difficult (and might even hate) to share their feelings. As a result, their relationships (both platonic and romantic) end up in shambles.

Thus, if you feel you're emotionally unavailable or if your partner(s) constantly complain(s) about your emotional unavailability, then these 5 tips would help you become more emotionally available.

1. Accept responsibility

Responsibility is taking ownership of your actions. It means holding yourself accountable for your mistakes and taking the necessary steps to repairing your relationship. This implies that when you make a mistake or fail to honor a commitment, rather than act like nothing happened, learn to apologize. Acknowledge and work on your flaws, it will help you become a more lovable person.

2. Develop trust

Trust is the bedrock of every successful relationship. Trust requires commitment and vulnerability. And this is why we find it difficult to trust people - we're scared of commitment and we don't want to appear vulnerable.

However, breaking down these trust barriers and overcoming your serious fear of commitment is one of the greatest steps to becoming a better partner. You develop trust by letting go of that crazy past experience and believing your partner has your best Interest at heart.

3. Be open hearted

Life they say, is not a bed of roses. So, as expected in your relationship, there are bound to be highs and lows. Unwavering acceptance of your relationship's highs and lows can help you become a stable and emotionally available partner.

Thus, keep your heart open; enjoy the highs and embrace the lows, don't jump ship at the slightest hint of trouble. Sometimes, it pays to stick it out.

4. Spend time with your partner

Creating time for the one you love is a great sign of emotional availability. Making plans, buying gifts, surprising your partner with a date, and planning a trip demonstrates that you are emotionally attentive and available to your partner. Start carving out some alone and quality time with your partner.

5. Share your emotions

You should be able to openly communicate your emotions, thoughts, and feelings to your partner. Bottling up your emotions will only make you bitter and leave your partner confused. It is common knowledge that every successful relationship thrives on effective communication, so don't be scared to be vulnerable, say what you feel, it doesn't matter if it's happiness, sadness or anger, communicate it effectively.

It's better to say you're angry than to stay quiet and give the silent treatment.

So go ahead and use these five ideas; your partner will undoubtedly notice a significant difference in you.