How to Stay Open and Teachable in Marriage

In this episode, we’re talking about adaptability and flexibility in marriage. We discuss those everyday moments when staying open and teachable really matter. It’s not just our big decisions, but our small, ordinary interactions that shape how we live life together. Listen in as we explore what psychological flexibility looks like in marriage and how growing in this area can create more peace, safety, and connection over time.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

• What psychological flexibility is and why it matters in marriage
• Why everyday moments—not just big decisions—often create the most tension
• Common roadblocks to flexibility, including control, rigidity, and shutdown
• How inflexibility affects emotional safety and connection over time
• Practical ways to practice flexibility without losing yourself
• How awareness creates space for better choices in marriage

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Psychological flexibility isn’t about being passive or agreeable—it’s about staying open and grounded.
• Inflexibility often shows up as shutdown, control, or resistance rather than overt conflict.
• Small, everyday interactions shape the emotional climate of a marriage.
• Control can feel like safety, but it often comes from fear.
• Awareness doesn’t fix everything, but it does create space for healthier responses.

US TIME CHALLENGE

This week, each of you choose one small area where you’ll intentionally practice flexibility. It might be listening without defending, staying open to a different preference, or pausing instead of shutting down.

At the end of the week, talk about what you noticed—not what you accomplished. The goal isn’t to “do it right,” but to build awareness and connection.

STAY CONNECTED BEYOND THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s next. And we’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you want to be more open and teachable in your marriage. Share it with us on social media or send us a message at AshleighSlater.com.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• “What Is Psychological Flexibility?” from the University of Rochester Medical Center (https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/behavioral-health-partners/bhp-blog/april-2020/what-is-psychological-flexibility.aspx)
• “Psychological Flexibility in Marriage” from Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/psychological-flexibility-in-marriage/)
• “How Psychological Flexibility Strengthens Relationships” from Marriage.com (https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/psychological-flexibility-in-relationships/)

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