Title: What to Do When Your Partner Is Overbearing | Our Everyday Life
Headings: What to Do When Your Partner Is Overbearing
What to Do When Your Partner Is Overbearing
Stop Enabling
Assert Yourself
Establish Boundaries
Know When to Seek Help

Content: The key is to be assertive, confident and consistent, advises psychiatrist Judith Orloff. Your partner may thrive on power struggles, so don't give him one. Focus on the important issues that need to be addressed, rather than getting stressed about minor quibbles like whose turn it is to take the trash out. For example, if you are discussing whose family to spend the holidays with, say something like, "I'd really like to spend a few days with my parents, because we haven't seen them for a long time. Perhaps we could stop by your parents' house on the way home?" which is likely to be far better received than saying, "We're spending the holidays with my parents, because we see your parents all the time!" Establish Boundaries
It's possible that your overbearing partner may not even be aware that she comes across as controlling, suggests Orloff. Find a way to let her know whenever she is crossing the line. For example, if she keeps forcing her opinions onto you, say something like, "I do appreciate what you're saying, but I would like some time to think this through on my own." If she dominates conversation when you're out with friends, take her to one side and say something like, "It's great that you're so friendly and sociable, but I'd like to speak for myself when someone asks me a question."