11. “You’re being ridiculous.”
It’s not always easy for guys to share their feelings, so saying something that invalidates them in this way is a no-go. “Being heard, empathized with, and ‘validated’ are crucial to a healthy relationship,” Hedger says. “Statements like ‘you’re being ridiculous’ demonstrate that someone is either struggling to or unwilling to empathize.
This often leads to a position of confrontation with the other partner feeling that they have to justify their thoughts or feelings.” Hedger suggests sticking to “I” statements instead of “you” ones in moments of conflict. For example, ‘I don’t understand why you feel that way,’ would be a good substitute, here.
