Stop asking 'How was work today?' Successful, mentally strong couples ask these 7 questions instead

The way we communicate with our partners can have a significant impact on our relationships, and this is especially important for high-stress professionals in the trade industry who may be dealing with long hours, complex projects, and tight deadlines. Asking routine questions like "How was work today?" can become a habit that leads to superficial conversations, according to Amy Morin, author of "13 Things Mentally Strong Couples Don't Do." This type of questioning can get couples "stuck in a communication rut," where they're not really connecting or sharing their thoughts and feelings.

Morin suggests that successful, mentally strong couples ask more in-depth questions that encourage meaningful conversations and help them better understand each other's experiences. By doing so, they can build stronger emotional connections, provide support, and foster a more empathetic relationship. For trade professionals, this can be particularly important, as their work can be physically and mentally demanding. By asking the right questions, they can help their partners feel heard and understood, even on days when work has been tough.

So what to watch next? As a trade professional, it's worth considering how you communicate with your partner, and whether you're asking questions that truly help you connect. Try incorporating some of Morin's suggested questions into your daily conversations, such as "What was the best part of your day?" or "What are you looking forward to tomorrow?" By making a few small changes to your communication habits, you can build a stronger, more supportive relationship that helps you navigate the challenges of your industry.

Originally reported by cnbc.com. Trade-News adds analysis for finance & markets readers.