“Reactive complaining can strain even the strongest relationships.” ~LMB Reactive complaining happens when someone voices a concern, and instead of addressing it, you reflexively bring up a complaint of your own. For example: Sally: Honey, can you please remember to put your clothes in the laundry rather than the floor? Scott: (Eye-roll) I do most days. […]
Mastering Clear Communication: Avoid Misunderstandings by Speaking Directly
“Speaking ‘in the grey,’ is a recipe for misunderstanding.” ~Lisa Merlo-Booth Have you ever been upset about someone’s actions that you thought you both had an agreement around? A low-stakes example of this could be you becoming angry at your partner for bringing home dinner for everyone rather than cooking a meal. As you both […]
Understanding Relationship Complaints: Listen the First Time
“When your partner complains about a pattern of behavior you do, listen, the first time.” ~LMB The key way out of a struggling relationship is finding the courage to change in the area your partner has been asking you to change for years. Too many people respond to their partner’s complaints by dismissing or minimizing […]