The research is in, and it’s pretty conclusive. The last decade has provided us with lots of new information on the practice of gratitude. Study results repeatedly illustrate a multitude of benefits for those who’ve implemented a gratitude practice in their lives. Overall, people who develop an attitude of gratitude experience enhanced physical and mental
Gratitude to the Rescue! Read More »
Carrying resentments and holding grudges requires energy. These emotional burdens not only impact our psychological health, but research shows that holding grudges actually exerts a toll on our physical health as well. So how do we let go of our resentments and grudges? Why do we hold grudges in the first place? And why are
9 Steps to Forgiveness Read More »
Let’s face it. Every relationship can use a boost from time to time. As the years go by and familiarity sets in, keeping our connection fresh and exciting becomes more and more of a challenge. Understanding what connects us to each other does make a difference. Common bonds can keep our love alive and help
5 Ways to Revitalize Your Relationship Read More »
The vision of having a special long-term partner or spouse in your life does not always live up to the reality that many experience. Unfortunately, being in a committed relationship does not guarantee that you’ll feel closely connected, satisfied, or fulfilled. Research shows that about 20% of the general population admits to being lonely, and
7 Steps to End Loneliness in a Relationship Read More »
A study published last month in the journal Social, Psychological and Personality Science addressed the age-old question: Does being in a relationship make you happier? It’s a general myth, accepted by most of society, that relationship status is tied into happiness. When couples break up and marriages dissolve, there is often implicit pressure on each
Can You be just as Happy Staying Single? Read More »
A recent study conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies confirmed findings previously reported by Dr. John Gottman of the Gottman Institute regarding the benefit of early intervention in saving relationships. While Gottman found that couples with the most difficulties (and who waited an average of six years before getting help) had less chance
New Research Confirms: Distressed Couples Shouldn’t Wait to Get Help Read More »
The consequences of divorce can be life shattering and usually include emotional and financial difficulties. The decision to separate, even temporarily, can be excruciatingly hard. Even when couples know they are unhappy, there are many factors to consider, especially when children are involved and/or finances are tight. On the other hand, staying in an unhappy
7 Important Considerations when Pondering a Break-Up Read More »
On a recent Howard Stern show, actor/ex-governor Arnold Schwarzenegger claimed that going to couples counseling (with ex-wife Maria Shriver) was “the biggest mistake I ever made.” What Arnold likely meant – it’s pretty safe to assume – was that couples counseling not only did not save his marriage, it actually contributed to its demise. This
Arnold S. Perpetuates Huge Myth about Couples Counseling Read More »
Renowned researcher and couples counselor, Dr. John Gottman, recently updated the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work, one of his best-selling books, coauthored with Nan Silver in 1999. Lots of technical advances have been made since the book first went to print over 16 years ago. Most importantly, the explosion of social media has had
How the “6 Magic Hours” Can Transform Your Relationship Read More »
When we first start dating someone, it’s easy to overlook traits that might seem like obvious red flags to outsiders. In the early stages of a new relationship, we are automatically drawn to the most appealing qualities of our partner. If we do notice anything disagreeable, it is often quickly dismissed as “something I can
Did You Overlook Any of These Relationship Warning Signs? Read More »
