It’s essential to recognize that an unsuccessful proposal doesn’t mean the end of your relationship. A person who rejects the proposal must emphasize how much they love their partner and see a future with them, even if they aren’t ready for marriage.
Abigail Makepeace, a marriage and family therapist, said there are many instances when one partner is eager to marry, but the proposal is rejected. Sometimes, couples stay together and postpone wedding plans. Marriage therapists Makepeace and other experts told HuffPost how to say no to people and keep them.
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Let Them Down Gently By Saying No
Being honest and mindful of your partner’s feelings is crucial if you reject a proposal. Achieving that balance can be challenging, so proceed with caution. Makepeace recommends explaining your answer in detail. It is also essential to acknowledge your partner’s feelings. The courage to say no needs to be accompanied by the assurance that you love your partner. If you can see a future with them, make them hopeful.
Public Proposals Are A Little Harder To Reject
In a public setting, do you remember what “flash mob” proposals used to be like? It’s a considerably more challenging situation for you now. Sarah Schewitz, the Maine-based psychologist, said it depends on them. She suggests you gauge whether your partner is more comfortable hearing the truth publicly or privately.
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A Failed Proposal Won’t Destroy Your Relationship
Don’t let an unsuccessful proposal end your relationship. Makepeace advised couples to discuss their hopes and expectations for the next step and what is needed to ensure that both partners are comfortable with a lifetime commitment. While they may not be ready for marriage, the person who rejected the proposal must emphasize their love for their partner and that they see a future with them.
Is There Anything We Can Do To Improve Communication?
Most couples approaching marriage have explicitly spoken about marriage or hinted at it and got a positive response. The way you communicated your goals and intentions is especially important for someone whose proposal was rejected.