Forgiveness is art and a science. Art because it takes creativity. Science because if stimulates physiological and neurological healing and change. That aside, I believe in my deepest core that forgiveness is the most important and meaningful task you and I have in our lives. Why? Forgive is for-giving love I’m not a religious guy. … Read more »
Tag: couples communication
Curiosity: One Skill That Will Save Your Marriage
You may be thinking, “How can curiosity save a marriage?” BINGO. Just that one question can kick the pre-frontal cortex of your brain into gear to find better answers and solutions to any challenge you may face in your relationship. The challenge is that most of us have not been trained to ask good questions. … Read more »
Clarity Creates Confidence; Confusion Causes Chaos
I invite you to read the title one more time. I invite you to consider how clarity and confusion affect your relationship with your partner at home. Is the statement true for you? Carol and I attended a workshop which focused on creating an accountable workplace culture. Accountability expert, Greg Bustin, shared many gems, such… Read more »
Finally Retired, And Now You Want A Divorce???
Divorce rates within the older population are rising. Dang! Based on historical research, Statistics Canada projected the life expectancy for the Canadian population in 2017 to be 79 years for men and 83 years for women. I have no idea if their projections were accurate, however, we know that people are living a heck of… Read more »
How Do You Show Your Love?
What do you mean, “How do you show your love?” Weird question, isn’t it? This may seem like a total exaggeration, but I invite you to ponder this. Many people (me included) get wrapped up in life – busy with work schedules, kids’ sports, family get-togethers, volunteer activities, TV, computer, and a variety of other… Read more »
Chronic Complaints: After 3 times, lay that sucker out
You might know the routine. Out of genuine care and concern for your partner you ask, “How was your day?” The response goes something like this, “Oh, you can’t believe what a crappy day it was……… (on and on and on, gag, gag, adnosium).” Too often, replaying these stories, and telling them over and over only… Read more »
What You Were Told As A Kid Doesn’t Work: The Art & Science of Word Use
Remember the ditty, “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me”? Totally ridiculous, wasn’t it? The phrase would supposedly protect us from verbal attacks on the playground at school. If you think about the flip-side of the phrase, it means it’s OK for the bully to use verbal attacks. After… Read more »
A Single Word Can Muck Up Your Relationship: a need for awareness and honesty
When coaching with couples, we usually ask if they know their partner’s hot buttons – words, a look, an expression that sends the partner into defensiveness, anger, withholding, or running. The answer is always “yes.” A really simple way to improve your relationship is to stop pushing those buttons. Easier said than done. As well… Read more »
Garage Sale Unwanted Stuff & Behaviour
Ever had a garage sale? Yes, we know there are some things that are tough to get rid of. Eventually, you just breath and let it go. It works the same way with behaviour you have that doesn’t serve a purpose anymore. Eventually, you just breath and let it go. Check out this great video,… Read more »
Marriage? Honesty Ensures Longevity
Regularly we have a dialogue with one of the partners in a relationship, and the words go like this: “I just found out that he/she is ready to leave. I had no idea it was so bad.” How does this happen? There are always many stories, yet the fact is: honest communication has not occurred…. Read more »
