Walking a fine line during a pandemic

"I never knew how loudly he chewed" and other common complaints about life during COVID-19

Even the calmest, most even-keeled couples can get on each other's nerves during a homebound pandemic.  There's just no break from each other's annoying habits, no matter how small or trivial.  What can you do to refrain from making it worse?  Experts say bite your tongue.  Resist the urge to share every reaction and complaint you have.  Remember: you are also probably annoying your spouse in ways you never even thought of!

Give yourselves a break.  Everyone is experiencing the fear, uncertainty and turmoil of COVID-19.  Concentrate on things you do enjoy with your partner, like cooking a meal, watching tv, playing a game, taking a walk, being intimate, just relaxing in the same room.  Find ways to quiet your mind or leave the room if you have the urge to criticize or complain.  Good relationships take good balance, staying focused on that delicate line between irritability and kindness.  Choose kindness, which might mean keeping your mouths shut!