Speaking Assertively Without Blame Clear and direct communication is crucial in any healthy relationship. However, expressing your feelings and needs is often easier said than done. Many couples struggle to speak up assertively without slipping into blame, judgement, or passive aggression. Mastering the skill of communicating directly while also conveying understanding and empathy takes some … Read more
Overcoming Communication Barriers in Marriage Effective communication is the lifeblood of any healthy marriage. When barriers disrupt the flow of understanding between partners, intimacy erodes along with the relationship. By identifying common communication pitfalls and learning skills to express needs clearly, couples can break down walls and build profoundly connected marriages. Why Communication Matters in … Read more
Managing Conflict Without Contempt No marriage is immune to conflict. Disagreements, large and small, are inevitable over issues like money, intimacy, division of labour, child-rearing, and more. However, research shows that how couples communicate during and after arguments, rather than the disagreements themselves, determines whether relationships last. Specifically, communicating with contempt by insulting your partner’s … Read more
Listening Without Interrupting Communication is the cornerstone of every healthy relationship. When communication breaks down, relationships suffer. A key component of good communication is listening – truly listening to your partner without interrupting them. This allows your partner to feel heard, valued, and understood. Interruptions during conversation can make your partner feel disrespected, dismissed, and … Read more
Becoming an Expert in Your Spouse’s Love Languages Expressing affection in a marriage can sometimes feel one-sided when partners speak different “love languages.” While you may feel you are showing your spouse love, they may not feel “heard” or valued if you do not speak their preferred means of receiving love. Learning your spouse’s love … Read more