Do You Talk to Your Friends or Your Partner More?

And why it matters…

It’s totally normal to vent to your best friend about your relationship now and then. Our friends are often the first ones we turn to when something’s bugging us.

But here’s a red flag to watch for: If your friends know more about your relationship frustrations than your actual partner does, it might be time for a reset.

Yes, it’s easier to talk to someone who’ll instantly take your side—but constantly venting to your circle can quietly replace the real conversations that would actually move your relationship forward. And if your partner finds out they’ve been the main character in your group chat rants? Oof.

So instead… before texting your crew, pause and ask yourself: Why am I not bringing this up with my partner? Is it a small, passing annoyance? If so, try writing it down, waiting a few days, and seeing if you want to come back to it.  Not every annoyance needs to be dealt with.  Some just need to be accepted.

But if it does matter—if it’s something that leaves you feeling dismissed, let down, or unseen—then your partner deserves to know.

The bottom line is: Healthy relationships aren’t built on silence—or side chats. They’re built on brave, honest conversations that bring you closer, even when they’re a little uncomfortable.

In addition to hosting The Sean Show on B105.7, Sean is a therapist at Evolve Therapy in Greenwood, IN.