Tag: marriage counseling in Alberta

The Power Between – Change Zone

The quality of relationships change. So why not make the changes to your relationship intentionally and consciously by your design?  To do that takes recognition of the Power Between, rather than power over. Our dear friends, Gail McDonald and Susan Sneath invited us to join them on their show to explore this. OK.  What specific… Read more »

Heart of Relationships: The bigger impact

If you’re a subscriber (and if you actually read/listen to these newsletters), you might recall us talking about the the Heart of Relationships.  Recently, we’ve become consciously aware of the bigger impact this model can have, in your personal life, as a couple and family, in your workplace, community, society and in the bigger world…. Read more »

Are You Trigger Happy?

By relationship trigger, we are not referring to hunting or the use of a firearm.  We are referring to a weapon we all use occasionally to hurt our partner, or at least to evoke a negative emotion and reaction. The relationship trigger is the words, the tone of voice, and often the body language. You… Read more »

The Choice To Receive

Many of us have been indoctrinated from a young age to believe it is better to give than to receive. Carol and I have learned that the choice to receive is actually a huge gift we offer others. They feel valued, accepted, and loved. Isn’t that part of what most of us strive to do?… Read more »

Decision-making Made Easy

Dang, we’ve had some nasty arguments when it comes to decision-making. Have you? Here’s the truth, plain and simple. Making the decision based on my logic is right … which means that Carol’s thoughts and feelings are wrong. I’ll bet you can guess what Carol has to say about that. Or to avoid conflict, we… Read more »

Is It Time for Self-Love For You?

OK, you’re saying, “Self Love? C’mon, Dan. What d’ya mean by time for self-love?” Maybe we could just call it self-care. The most important question is this, “What does self-love have to do with your intimate relationship?” It ties in really well with our ‘Heart of Relationships‘ model. But now, check out this quick video…. Read more »

Confidentiality Builds Trust

If you and I were having a conversation about something quite personal in my life, would you then talk to others about it? Your answer indicates that confidentiality builds trust. Your answer was likely “no”, yet how often to do and your life partner have a conversation that then gets spread to your friends, family,… Read more »

No With Grace

The word, “No” with grace can be a powerful tool to have in your toolbox. It is a chance to check in with your true desires and values. Rather than giving yourself away to others’ needs or wants, it enhances the relationship with self, your partner, and others. You can say No with grace to… Read more »

2 X 2 Couple’s Retreat: 10 Reasons to do it #2

Where we live out in the “sticks,” most of us have a 4 X 4 truck.  For us, it’s a no-brainer – for stability, safety, flexibility, and power. Our 4 X 4 keeps us solidly on the road, regardless of the conditions.  When consciously attending to conditions, we travel safely and get where we’re going. … Read more »

3 Steps For Better Feelings

“How’s it going, Aly?” With a tender, loving smile, and a glint in his eyes he said, “It’s a tough climb – but damn good footin’.” Aly was a stocky, elderly cowboy, about five feet tall.  Gold, wire-rimmed glasses perched on his short, broad nose.  His face was tanned and weathered.  On his round, bald… Read more »