Compliments are nice, but admiration goes deeper—especially in marriage. Instead of just saying “You’re amazing” or “Thanks for everything,” try “I admire how patient you were with the kids today” or “I admire how you handled that tough conversation with so much wisdom.” Rather than a general “You’re such a great spouse,” say “I admire […]
Month: February 2025
Both your motive and intention are key for difficult conversations.
When preparing for a difficult conversation, it’s important to understand the difference between motive and intention. Motive is the underlying reason or emotion driving you to engage in the conversation. It answers, Why am I doing this? Recognizing your motive ensures you’re honest with yourself about why you’re having the conversation, whether it’s to express […]
Add some playfulness: Inside Jokes
Inside jokes are little treasures that make your relationship uniquely yours. They come from shared experiences, funny moments, or quirky habits that only the two of you get. Maybe you recall a time when you both got lost on a trip, or when a cooking experiment turned into a hilarious disaster. Those are the types […]
Add some playfulness: The power of Goofy Competition
Sometimes, it’s the little, silly competitions that lighten the mood and bring laughter into your marriage. No need for anything fancy—just a moment of play can reset the tone and remind you both of the joy in your relationship. For example, try flipping bottle caps to see whose bounces the furthest. It’s goofy, but a […]
How to Minimize Defensive Responses from Others
When trying to address a sensitive topic or give feedback, our words matter. To reduce the likelihood of triggering a defensive response, try these strategies: By being mindful of how you word things, you can foster a more open, less defensive conversation, creating space for collaboration rather than conflict.
What is partnership in marriage?
Marriage partnership is about mutual empowerment—both partners working together toward the same goal, collaborating, and lifting each other up. In a true partnership, when one person experiences growth or success, the entire relationship thrives, creating a continuous cycle of shared strength and support. A healthy partnership has fluid roles of giving and receiving. Sometimes we […]