We tend to think of conflict as a threat to our relationships, but what if it’s actually one of the greatest tools we have to deepen connection and build trust? In this episode, I unpack eight powerful benefits of conflict in relationships, including how it sharpens communication, uncovers hidden needs, builds resilience, and ultimately develops…
Thanksgiving is almost upon us. With its coming, the holiday season will be upon us, and the season’s rush will be in full force. The truth is that our expectations and hopes for the holidays can often be far different from reality. The holiday season, often envisioned as a time of joy and togetherness, can…
In a world that often feels fast-paced, chaotic, and filled with challenges, it’s easy to overlook the small, everyday gestures that can make a big difference in someone’s life. Random acts of kindness, those spontaneous and selfless actions performed without expecting anything in return, profoundly impact both the giver and the recipient. Though seemingly simple,…
Last week, we explored the complexity of life and even considered learning to love it. Depending on your preference, you can find the post here or here if you missed that discussion. I’m frequently reminded of how complex life can be, and how that complexity often makes life challenging. Based on your comments and emails,…
Sarah clenched her hands together, her heart racing as she watched her dog take his last breath—sweet, sweet Dog. Tears fell freely from her eyes, blurring her vision. She felt her heart would never heal from losing her four-legged companion, her best friend, since she was ten. She vowed never to love a dog again….
Introduction Today, we wrap up our series on effective communication. If you missed the previous posts, you can start with the first one here and find the subsequent posts here and here. In this final installment, we’ll explore the importance of staying focused on one issue until it’s resolved. Most importantly, we’ll discuss the value…
The following is an expert from The Emotionally Secure Couple. Chapter 8 deals with conflict. The book can be bought wherever quality books are sold and at our offices. Storytellers love conflict. Seriously. Think about our modern-day bards—they all tell tales of high conflict. This conflict gives the hero or heroine in the story purpose…
Why haven't you been _______? I was recently asked, "Hey, why haven't I seen you at ________?" I left the place blank on purpose because it doesn't necessarily matter what you put in that blank, you probably haven't seen me in a lot of places. Some people have asked from, what I believe, is a…
There is something of a joke amongst marriage and relationship therapists. Everyone we meet, regardless of what is going on in their marriage, just needs to improve their communication. Domestic Violence? Just help us improve our communication. Infidelity? Just help us improve our communication. Financial Issues? Just help us improve our communication. Criminal Enterprise? Just…
Relationships are hard They can have painful experiences. Those painful experiences from past experiences can cast shadows into our current relationships. People are complicated messes. Even, perhaps especially, the people we love. Often, when I'm working with a couple I will see a phenomenon I call "Hall Pass." When they are feeling their loved ones…
