10 Building Blocks of Emotional Intimacy

"Once two unique people commit to having their love translate into a meaningful relationship characterized by genuine intimacy, they will need to remain in an apprenticeship of intimacy. There will be no arrival, only the opportunity to make modifications and grow. Emotional intimacy possesses too much that is unknown, as two unique individuals are changing, growing, and unfolding in their own distinctive ways. Let's look closely at the 10 building blocks that comprise the apprenticeship."

"One of the most intimate offerings you can make to your partner is the message, " I will hear you." The depth of intimacy grows as both people view their relationship as a place where they likely will be heard and understood. Listening can happen non-verbally with warm eye contact or verbally. The verbal expressions of listening include: "I hear you saying ...," "Sounds like you want me to know ...," "You seem to be saying ....""

Emotional intimacy demands continuous effort and adaptation rather than a fixed endpoint. Partners must accept that both people change and that intimacy requires ongoing modifications and growth. Letting go of the need to be right prevents cycles of dominance, avoidance, and identity defined by proving the other wrong. Devotional listening—attentive, focused, and reflective—conveys "I will hear you" and deepens understanding. Clear, concrete requests reduce misunderstandings and unmet needs. Acceptance of differing needs and sustained curiosity about evolving partners support lasting connection. These building blocks form a framework for a lifelong apprenticeship in intimacy that prioritizes connection over victory.

Read at Psychology Today