Jenna and Ethan, a couple with two kids, have been married for eight years.

They feel like they’re just roommates, not husband and wife.
They don’t share their feelings or decisions.
They want to feel closer, but it’s hard. Jenna needs to trust Ethan and herself more.

Jenna was hurt in her first marriage, and she’s scared to get hurt again. But she’s starting to take risks and let Ethan in. This is important for building closeness in relationships.

Some people find it hard to be open in relationships. They want to be seen for who they are, but they don’t know how to do it.

One big thing that stops people from being close to their partners is fear. They’re scared that if they open up, they’ll get hurt. To be close to someone, you must be willing to take that risk.

Being in love is risky. There are no guarantees. Your partner could leave or hurt you. But if you don’t share your true feelings, you might miss out on love.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I hold back when I’m with my partner?
• Am I scared of getting hurt so I don’t share my real self?
• Can I ask for what I need and let myself be vulnerable?
• Do I love myself and expect to be loved and respected?
  If you’re too scared to be open with your partner, you must admit it. Fear doesn’t just go away. But being open can make you feel more worthy and real. It can help you feel close to your partner but still be your person. It can help you ask for what you want and build trust. It lets you fully give and receive love.
  Here are some things you can do:
• Figure out why you’re scared of getting close.
• Imagine yourself in an open and honest relationship. Start by sharing your feelings about small things.
• Consider why you don’t ask for the love and support you need.
• Write in a journal or talk to a friend or therapist about your progress.
• Make a vision board of what you want your relationship to look like.
  Everyone makes mistakes in relationships. But you can have a healthy relationship if you let go of fear and believe you deserve love.