A selfish partner often makes unilateral decisions without consulting you or asking for your opinion. They may also dismiss your concerns or belittle them. They may take all of the attention and care in the relationship without giving back or recognizing your needs, leaving you feeling undervalued and disconnected from the relationship. They also may not apologize for their actions, instead blaming you or the situation.
Selfish partners may also secretly cheat on you, steal your belongings, or lie to you, leaving you in a toxic and harmful relationship. They might also refuse to work on long-term goals together or discuss marriage or children. Selfish partners tend to be difficult to get along with, but overcoming selfishness in a relationship is possible through clear communication, patience, and understanding.
When addressing a selfish partner, it is important to remain calm and focus on the behaviors that are bothering you. Use “I-statements” to explain how their behavior makes you feel and avoid generalizing or blaming them for their actions. This approach lessens their defensive reaction and fosters understanding. Also, provide specific examples of times when they have seemed selfish to help them understand your concerns. It’s also helpful to have a support system for yourself during this process. You can lean on family and friends to vent or provide emotional support when needed. Finally, set boundaries and communicate them clearly with your partner. This helps both of you understand what is and isn’t acceptable, which can help to reduce feelings of resentment. Ways to Deal With a Selfish Partner in a Relationship