Communication
If you’re married, you know the value of knowing how to communicate with your spouse without fighting. Conflict is inevitable. The difference between happy and unhappy marriages often hinges on a couple’s ability to resolve conflict. You may wonder if you can fix an unhappy marriage when you can’t even stop fighting long enough to feel…
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Our words account for only a tiny percentage of communication. Messages are also communicated by body language, facial expression, vocal tone, and other qualities of voice. If your words do not match with the tone of your non-verbal communication, then you are sending a mixed message. Mixed messages pose a problem for the receiver, who gets confused and sometimes feels the need to ask for clarification. By learning how to communicate with clarity, you learn to align your words, vocal tone, facial expression, and body language. Alignment of all the elements of communication leads to more coherent communication and reduces confusion and friction in relationships.
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Have you ever noticed that some people in your life are direct, to the point and crystal clear about their opinions on a wide range of topics? They have a “direct” communication style. Other people use an indirect style. They spend more time developing their point and are afraid to create tension or discomfort, especially…
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Spring gifts us with a booster-shot of motivation. Who can resist the urge to clean, de-clutter, purge, and simplify our environment? This year, consider whether your inner environment could benefit from a Spring cleaning too. Our handy checklist will help you clear out the clutter so your relationship can shine!
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It is human nature to want to share our experiences with the one we love. In our intensive couples therapy retreats, we teach that a person’s desire to be “known” by their partner is a foundation of healthy intimacy. It is also human nature to be curious about your partner’s relationship past —a key to learn…
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What is your advice? Every night when Julie gets home from the office, Dan questions her about her day. He expects to hear about the morning commute, project meeting, lunch, phone calls and e-mails with friends. Julie has no interest in reliving her day and usually wants to cuddle and watch a funny show or…
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Problems occur in a relationship when the partners have conflicting styles and perspectives about money. Even though money is a leading cause of divorce, couples rarely explore their individual money-selves before tying the knot. Often a money conflict sparks the discussion and sheds light on areas of incompatibility. Handled well (with awareness, understanding, and objectivity) different perspectives are not necessarily unworkable. In fact, many couples create financial plans that account for their individual money needs and wants, and find a complementary balance. The grinch curbs the spendthrift who loosens up the grinch to enjoy a moderate taste of the good life.
Read MorePolitics + Relationship: Red State Husband-Blue State Wife Don’t Let Political Arguments Threaten Your Marriage When I was growing up my parents had opposing views on politics. My mother grew up during the depression, loved FDR and was committed to the Democratic Party. My father was a WWII veteran who liked Ike. They rarely talked…
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