How to Handle Your Partner’s Disappointment Without Losing Yourself

In this episode of Dear Dr. Tracy, Dr. Tracy and Greg explore a listener’s struggle with saying no to her husband’s request—especially when his disappointment feels “loud and heavy.” During a tense family vacation at his parents’ cottage, she wanted to leave early, but agreed to stay longer to avoid upsetting him—only to end up in tears.
They unpack:
Why so many people put their own needs aside to keep the peace
How fear of disappointing a partner can quietly erode connection
The difference between compromise and self-abandonment
How to tolerate a partner’s disappointment without spiraling into guilt
Practical ways to have hard conversations while staying connected
This episode is for anyone who has ever said “yes” when every part of them wanted to say “no,” offering tools to protect personal well-being, communicate with clarity, and strengthen the relationship.

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