139. The Most Common, Challenging Pain Point Every Blended Couple Experiences
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We're betting you want to experience teamwork, connection, and peace in your blended family journey.
But if you're anything like us, the complex emotions and unexpected relational tension might be taking you by surprise. You're not alone. We struggled with the pain that comes with all that for years.
All too often, Kim felt like the rope in a tug-of-war between her daughter and Mike. She wanted everyone to feel loved and to be happy but felt like she had to choose between Annika and Mike. She felt trapped.
On the other hand, Mike often felt like an outsider in his own home. He wanted to be acknowledged, included, and heard, but he felt stranded — like he just didn't "fit" into Kim and Annika's close relationship.
In our pain, we tended to react in ways that didn't help. Then we would feel stuck.
Stuck in our pain
Stuck in confusion
Stuck in conflict
And the good news is that we discovered ways to get unstuck, and now we help blended family couples move beyond the tensions of feeling trapped and stranded too.
Hop into this episode to start learning how…
You'll Discover:
One of the most common dynamics for blended couples - that often creates disconnection, confusion, and pain
Two natural reactions that can make things worse
Two tips to help you stay connected and reduce tension even when you're feeling Trapped or Stranded
Resources from this Episode:
Episode 22 - 1 Simple - and Romantic - Way to Combat Being Stranded or Trapped
Episode 23 - How to Move From Feeling Stranded to Being Connected
Episode 24 - What if You Could Relieve the Trapped Teammate Pressure?
Episode 39 - How to Create Strong Bonds with Resistant Step-Kids
Episode 49 - Should Your Highest Priority Be Your Marriage…or Your Kids?
Episode 59 - Why Are You Stuck in a Parent-Child Allegiance? (Part 1)
Episode 61 - How to Partner Well as a Stepparent…Even if You Feel Stuck on the Outside (Part 1)
We mentioned Patricia Papernow's book: Surviving And Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships
Ready for personalized support? Schedule your free coaching call
We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home. Schedule your free call here: https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession
Feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start?
With so many episodes available here on the show, it might feel a bit overwhelming to find the topics that matter most to you. That's why we've created the Blended Family Breakthrough Quiz which will direct you to the most impactful episodes that pertain to you personally.
Join our community
You don't need to navigate blended family life alone. Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies. Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether
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