‘NEW year, new me’ shouldn’t be just about changing things about yourself, it should include the way you relate to other people, too. And that involves expressing your thoughts and feelings towards your partner, which is crucial for open communication and understanding. This helps prevent misunderstandings, builds trust, and fosters emotional connection between partners.

As we launch into 2024, what’s something you’re glad you finally got off of your chest in your relationship, that has helped you now move forward in peace?

Gillian, 32:

I told my husband that I required foreplay, and pointed him to how I wanted it — fast and slow, where and with what — with written directions, including diagrams, for back-up. I was tired of him treating me like I was just there to satisfy him. Me being insistent on this improved our love life a lot, because before I was terrified and a bit embarrassed about saying anything, because he was the more experienced one.

Yanique, 30:

I was going to church alone with our daughter each Sunday, while hubby stayed home because he was “too tired”, didn’t “like church”, or he wanted “to do something else”. It would annoy me, but all I was doing was praying about it. I finally told him that we needed to go to church as a family, as our daughter was getting the wrong message from him, and he needed to serve in the ministry also, and not just warm the benches. Surprisingly, he complied without complaining. Sometimes you just have to put your foot down.

Kay-Ann, 42:

I told my partner that I lied about him being better in bed than my ex, not to hurt him, but to get him to shut up about my ex when we were intimate. We’ve been together six years, and every single time he asks “who’s your real zaddy”and makes other comments to tear down my ex, because one time he asked who was the better lover, and I lied to boost his ego. But I got tired of it, because it’s like he was running some competition, and the comparison was getting irritating, especially when deep down I knew it wasn’t true. So I just told him. He’s still upset, but my conscience is clear.

Thomas, 33:

I told my wife she can’t cook — like at all. I saw it as a lifesaving gesture, because this Christmas she wanted to host our families, and rebuked my suggestion to get a caterer. So I had to tell her, because no way would I make her embarrass me in front of my family, or worse, let them tell her that her food is awful, or discuss her in the group chat.

Mark, 28:

I told my girl she’s selfish in bed, and while her pretty face got me, she has to do better than just lie there like a dolly. She took it well though, and we have been trying new things. I love her more for being open to criticism.