By Karen McMahon What is the difference between reacting and responding? The most important difference is the control you have over your emotions. When we react, it is an emotional knee-jerk snap. It is usually as a result of someone ‘pushing our buttons’. We can go from 0 to 100 in seconds. It is sometimes […]
When you get upset with your partner consider your part in it first. How did I exacerbate the situation or how have I put myself in this situation by not setting healthy boundaries and sticking to them? If you hear yourself saying, “he hurt me so bad, it’s his fault that I…” or “I only said those things because she…”, remember that you are completely responsible for your actions and you always have choices.
Don’t make assumptions. We often react to our perception of our loved one’s actions or words and completely misinterpret their meaning. For instance, “If he loved me, he would..." Stop and question your interpretations.
As we look for a partner in life that we can love, interesting things begin to happen. At first, we are blissfully consumed by the other person. They make us feel strong and sexy, fulfilled and needed, etc. But after a time, we may find ourselves...
Resentment is like a glass of poison that a man drinks; then he sits down and waits for his enemy to die. What would it be like to release yourself from anger and resentment? How might forgiveness enable you to celebrate the Christmas holiday with more peace and joy?
So how can we foster a healthy conversation and healing when we or a loved one is angry? The best approach is to listen quietly to their angry explosion. Listening is a potent tool in conversation. It is important to avoid the desire to defend yourself at this point...
After a confrontation with your spouse, you may find your self operating on automatic pilot because you are living in your head. All your attention is on the heated argument that continues. The only problem is the other party is long since gone. But you keep on arguing, point -- counter-point as your emotions continue to build...
