Symmetrical Vs Complementary Relationship

According to the marriage experts, they said that have a deep knowledge and understanding the characteristics of your relationship type can add value to you and your partner relationship. Such understanding can help to bridging the bond between you and your partner.  Now, what type of relationship does you and your partner share? Is it a symmetrical relationship or is it a complementary relationship?

If you and your partner share a symmetrical type of relationship, it means that both of you perceived similar traits, characteristics, backgrounds, hobbies and other factors that are similar. Couples usually develop this type of relationship because they find out that they both felt that they are in the same boat as the other; the way you talk, the interest, the experiences etc. Both of you will then feel that ‘hey, we are a perfect match made in heaven’. Both of you will feel very comfortable being with one another as you perceive your partner as the same way you perceive yourself. Both of you are just the mirror of each other. Normally, when this happens, such similarities factors are vital in the process of developing mutuality.

Symmetrical Relationship

On the other hand, if you and your partner have different traits, characteristics, backgrounds, hobbies and other factors that are mostly opposite then you are having a complementary relationship. Couples usually develop this type of relationship because they felt that they provide balance to the other. For example, you are very good in planning but you are not good in organizing and executing plans. On the other hand, your boyfriend is very good in organizing and executing plans. Thus, your boyfriend provides a supplement or balance to your weaknesses. You felt that you and your partner are perfect matches as his opposite traits added advantages to your weaknesses and your weaknesses added advantages to him.

Complementary Relationship

Both symmetrical and complementary relationship however has both pros and cons.  By maximising the positive aspects help to maintain our relationship. For example, if you know that you and your partner shared a symmetrical type of relationship, then use the natural similarities between you and your partner to strengthen the relationship. On the other hand, if both you and your partner shared complementary relationship, then focus on the differences between both you and your partner to maintain the relationship.

*However, we do not only apply these types of relationships do not only apply in the ‘love’ relationship. We also apply it in our friendship as well as family members. Sometimes, we just love to be around with those who are similar or just the opposite of us. The most important thing is that we have to be truly ourselves no matter who we are with. We are unique in all ways. 

Steffi

The Johari Window

This is a test we do in class recently- The Johari Window.

It actually helps me to know myself and my relationship with people around me better so I can determine how far and how deep that relationship can grow and develop in future.

First of all, think of ONE target person. (any person will do)

In the 'Open' column, fill in things you freely shared with that person.

eg: hometown, age or any secrets that you told that person

In the 'Blind' column, fill in things that you only realized after being told by that person.

eg: your appearance at that person's perception, your characteristics at that person's point of view

In the 'Hidden' column, fill in things that you know about yourself but that person does not know.

eg: you are an alcoholic, you smoke, you are easily offended

In the 'Unknown' column, fill in things that both you and the person does not know.

eg: you have a fatal disease and both of you don't know how long can you live,

Try filling up this window with a different target person,

 for example, family members, friends and acquaintances. 

You will realize that this window quadrants will expand and contract in different shapes depending on how deep the relationship you build with that person.

Have fun!

Rachel