It’s common for people to use avoidance tactics when they don’t want to talk about something. Not talking about these things isn’t going to make them disappear. Putting off conversations can build resentment, making it even harder to address your issues over time. Accept that it will be hard. But don’t expect that it will […]
How to have difficult conversations with your spouse. Read More »
You may have every ‘right’ to expect something from your spouse or someone else and so you constantly remind them to do it. But they consistently don’t do it or ignore your requests. And you remind them again. That’s nagging. And people don’t respond well to nagging. Such communication can come across as complaining, blaming
Nagging is in the ear of the beholder. Read More »
We are not talking about taunting or belittling. It’s that playful ribbing that creates bonding. It’s gently poking fun at personal quirks you find entertaining and endearing. Teasing is great because it shows that you really know your partner inside and out and that you love their greatest attributes and biggest flaws equally. Laughter and
What playful teasing can do for your relationship. Read More »
Things happen all the time. For example, your spouse comes home 2 hours later than they had said. It is really our thoughts that create our experience of that circumstance or event. We give meaning to whatever happened. “So inconsiderate.” or “They work so hard for our family.” Our feelings then follow those thoughts. Angry
Your thoughts create your results. Read More »
A Marriage Meeting can really solidify your marriage. This is a short (about 30 minutes) check-in where the two of you share appreciation, plan together and nip potential conflicts in the bud. This should be a scheduled weekly meeting (separate from date night or budget meetings). A half-hour is long enough to cover everything, but
Weekly marriage meetings keep you on track. Read More »
There is a subtle difference between a budget and a spending plan. A spending plan is couched in empowering language and encourages thoughtful financial decisions. You might think of a ‘spending plan’ as a roadmap for how you’ll spend your money, rather than a list of ‘don’ts’ that restrict your spending — even if the
Create a spending plan, not a budget. Read More »
We won’t find a solution by telling ourselves that there is no problem. That thinking “There shouldn’t be a problem, so there is no problem, so we don’t have to deal with this” keeps us in a rut. And things can potentially get even worse. There’s something going on that is problematic for us. We
You cannot solve a problem you are not willing to have. Read More »
First time doing anything can be hard. After all, it is an experience we’ve never had before. We might feel embarrassed, anxious, frustrated, or scared during these moments. But, you can do it! Firstly, admit to yourself that this is a ‘first time’ moment. “This is my first [time taking care of a sick parent,
First times can be overwhelming. You can do it! Read More »
You’re wishing for change in your life? You’re gonna have to do it yourself. No one is coming to push you. Some good people may help you along the way. Maybe, a little prod here and there, but never the real push to get you to where you want to be. No one is coming
You’re always going to need to give yourself a push. Read More »
We procrastinate when we are in a negative mood. To motivate ourselves, we need to work to get ourselves in a happier mood. Happiness increases productivity and makes us more successful. One way to increase optimism and lift our mood is through the “Progress Principle”. Celebrate any progress made, no matter how trivial. (Yeah, even
To beat procrastination, celebrate your small wins. Read More »
