Hey there, let’s have a little heart-to-heart.
If your partner ever looks at you mid-conversation and goes, “It’s not that serious,” then you might be doing that thing again — turning a casual, bonding moment into a courtroom drama.
We’re talking about the moment they say something like:
“I saw a wave go over the boardwalk, it was wild!”
And your immediate response is:
“Are you sure? Waves don’t usually reach that high.”
😐 You didn’t mean to ruin the mood. But… you kinda did.
What’s Actually Happening Here?
It’s not about the wave.
It’s not about the chicken that crossed the road (whether it was 12 or 13).
It’s not about being “right.”
It’s about connection.
Your partner is trying to build rapport, share a laugh, paint a picture, or just let you into their day. And when you challenge small details that don’t matter, it can feel like you’re questioning their credibility instead of just listening to them.
Common Examples
🐔 Casual Story
“There were like 13 chickens crossing the road!”
You: “Hmm… wasn’t it 12?”
Result: Now we’re counting chickens instead of laughing at the absurdity.
🌊 Vibe Story
“The waves were crashing over the railings!”
You: “Technically, that area’s 6 feet above sea level. Are you sure?”
Result: Now we’re in a debate about sea levels instead of bonding over the moment.
👶 Memory Lane
“Remember how our baby used to crawl like a little crab?”
You: “I think you’re confusing it with how he scooted later on.”
Result: Aww moment, gone.
Why This Happens
- You value accuracy (nothing wrong with that!)
- You want to “help” clarify or correct.
- You're naturally analytical or skeptical.
- You don't even realize you're doing it.
But in relationships, emotional intelligence > technical accuracy — at least in casual banter.
What to Do Instead
✅ Let it slide
Not every detail needs a correction. If the spirit is there, let it fly.
✅ Join the vibe
“Yes! That was WILD!” is better than, “Hmm, really?”
✅ Save the facts for later
If something really needs to be clarified (like medication dosage or appointment time), by all means, double-check.
But if it’s storytelling time? Enjoy the show.
✅ Ask follow-up questions — not corrections
Instead of challenging the detail, be curious:
“No way, the waves went that high? What did people do?”
Now you’re in the story — not editing it mid-scene.
A Little Mantra to Remember
“I don’t need to be right right now — I just need to be present.”
Final Thought: Your Partner is Inviting You In
When your spouse tells you a random story, shares a goofy memory, or exaggerates for fun, they’re not looking for corrections. They’re looking for a connection.
So next time a wave “crashes over the boardwalk,” just say,
“Whoa, that’s crazy!”
Even if, deep down, your brain is screaming, “Impossible!”
Because sometimes, letting a chicken cross the road — uncounted — is the best thing you can do for your marriage.