We each have different ways that we prefer to take in and share information – our communication style. It is worthwhile to learn each other’s styles so you can tailor and individualize your messages so that they are best understood and received. And you will also have a better understanding about why others engage in […]
Learn each other’s communication styles Read More »
The metaphor, “the elephant in the room” refers to an obvious problem that is being ignored. You both know that there is an issue. Yet, neither is willing to talk about it. Or even admit it exists. Ignoring an obvious problem is a type of conflict avoidance strategy. People fear the stress and negativity that
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Silence in a relationship? There are times in relationships when being silent is acceptable and even productive. For instance, a couple, or even just one partner, may take a thoughtful timeout from a heated argument to cool off or gather their thoughts. The timeout is mindful and there is an assumption or agreement that they
Silence is good sometimes; Silent treatment is never good Read More »
In your budget conversations, you will probably end up talking about your values, goals and priorities. This can help you know each other even better. The more honest and vulnerable you are, the better you will understand why you interact with money in the ways that you do. Making a simple budget together can bring
Talking about money can deepen your relationship Read More »
Have a budget or money conversation. Or better yet, a date. On a consistent basis. You might talk about your money management styles. Or each of your strengths in areas around finances. You might start a conversation about “When it comes to our finances, I could use some help in the area of …” Or,
“It’s not what someone said, it’s what you’ve heard.” You have the power to interpret someone’s words. The other person said some words. It’s you who gives meaning to those words. You can take those words to heart, disregard them, laugh at them, learn from them, get outraged or provoked… It’s really up to you.
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It’s not what you say, it is how it is heard. People take in messages based on their previous experiences. Some words might trigger a reaction. You might have said something that hit on a nerve or sensitivity. Some words have connotations to someone that you may not even realize. If someone has an adverse
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“Tact is the art of making a point without making an enemy.” – Isaac Newton Tact is the ability to deliver a difficult message in a way that considers other people’s feelings and their reactions. This takes sensitivity, understanding and flexibility. Acting with tact means that you notice the circumstance and adjust the message accordingly.
Tact takes sensitivity, understanding and adaptability Read More »
Sometimes, when there is conflict, the conversation doesn’t go as well as we would like. Emotions may be getting in the way. The timing may be off. You can say, “This is important. I want to talk about it. Not this way.” As possible, take a break from the conversation and pick it up when
Important topic, but conversation not going well? Read More »
Nagging is “See what you are not?” Support is “Look at all you can be.” In both cases, you want to help your spouse to become a better version of themselves. It’s your mindset and the words that come from that mindset that makes all the difference. Nagging comes from the mindset that you don’t
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