India, April 29 -- I was running a training programme for an organization around habits and behaviour that contribute to healthy and fulfilling relationships. During the session, a young participant asked if there are certain specific behaviours that come in the way of intimacy and closeness. I loved the question for the reality is that there are habits that we may unconsciously or unintentionally engage in which can lead to conflict in relationships.

Our ability to tolerate pauses and silence in conversations is often underestimated when it comes to relationships. Whether in friendships or romantic relationships, we need to develop an ability to be patient and not fill the gaps when there is a pause or silence. Often people fill the gap...