Sliding Door Moments #1

Photo by Klearchos Kapoutsis Flickr

Sliding Door Moments: Opportunities to Be There for Your Partner

Author and researcher, John Gottman, uses the term sliding door moments to describe opportunities to connect with our partners. These are often micro moments of potential to let your partner know you care, you are there for them, and they can count on you. The term sliding door fits well because these occasions can be so fleeting they are easily missed. Mixed in with other blog posts below are real life sliding door moments that I see in relationships all around me, including my own. Some moments were embraced and perhaps created stronger bonds for the couple while others were missed. I hope highlighting these real life sliding door moments in other’s relationships will help you seek out and take advantage of the opportunity they provided to turn towards your partner and build trust in your own relationship.

Sliding Door Moments #1

On the therapy couch a couple sits, referred to lovingly by one client as the principal’s office. Each person is nervous, uneasy, and would probably rather be just about any place but there. As they shared about a recent conflict they faced both beginning to tense up, the husband made a gentle inside joke that brought a smile to both their faces. The wife’s shoulders dropped with ease accepting her husband’s bid for affection. He gently touched her leg. They were in this therapy thing together and ready to face whatever might come up.

If your partner reaches out to you today to ease your stress consider accepting that small bid because it may bring big comfort.

Learn more about John Gottman’s sliding door moments, in the article What Makes Love Last: Sliding Door Moments.

Michelle Puster M.Ed. | Licensed Professional Counselor
Helping disconnected couples grow closer
Couples & Marriage Counseling Katy, TX