[header] How to accept honest criticism from your partner [title] Remind yourself it's not a zero-sum game. [step] No one likes to be criticized. It can be very hard to hear how you've failed to meet your partner's expectations-you might feel unfairly blamed, misunderstood, or attacked. 
However, think about the reason you and your partner are communicating in the first place. [substeps] Keep in mind that your relationship shouldn't be a power-struggle.