ABOUT THIS EPISODE
When couples begin talking about separation, it can feel terrifying. Many people assume separation means the marriage is over, but what if separation isn’t always about ending the relationship? What if it can become a path toward greater clarity and healing?
In this episode, I continue the conversation from last week’s episode on marital discernment counseling and explore the difference between reactive, protective, and healing separations. I share insights from a recent marriage roundtable and discuss how separation can provide space to slow down, reflect, and examine our own contribution to the relationship rather than focusing solely on changing our spouse.
We’ll also talk about hard problems versus soft problems, why clarity matters more than rushing decisions, and how healing often begins with curiosity and self-awareness.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The different types of separation and why they matter.
- What a healing separation in marriage is designed to accomplish.
- How discernment counseling helps couples gain clarity.
- The difference between hard problems and soft problems.
- Why focusing only on your spouse’s change can keep you stuck.
- Questions to ask yourself when you’re in the space between staying and leaving.
If you’re wrestling with whether to stay, separate, or seek help, this conversation will encourage you to slow down and make decisions from wisdom rather than exhaustion.
Ready for support?
Schedule a Courageous Love Conversation and discover your next step toward healing and clarity.
CBS News Interview: 6 Tips For A Healthy & Loving Relationship
Does communication feel hard in your marriage? Get my Gentle Start Communication Guide, where I share a gentle daily practice that helps you stay present, name what’s true for you, and build connection without escalation or problem-solving.
Unlock deeper connection in your marriage with my free guide, Daily Prompts for Deeper Connection with Your Spouse—get it now!
Start feeling more connected and loved in your marriage today with my free Reclaim More Love in Just 3 Days process. This process will have you learning how to shift your focus, in a healthy way, and nurture thoughts that build connection and transform how you feel about your marriage.
More resources and how you can start the process of Awakening(YourTrue)You and being the partner who creates your best version of what marriage looks like for you: https://christinebongiovanni.com/
Join my AwakenYou newsletter for weekly marriage tips and early announcements of upcoming offerings.
