One common complaint heard in therapy is that one spouse is ignoring things that are important to the other. Often this perception is more about misinterpretation of actions than actual fact. While the facts of a spouse’s behavior are important, it is important not to interpret motive without talking over the situation. For example, if

People often don’t see the connection between their actions and the start of an extra-marital affair. Seemingly harmless behaviors can lead down the slippery slope to infidelity. Be on the lookout for these five signs that you may be on the path to cheating: 1) You reconnect with an old friend of the opposite sex.

Dopamine is released in new and novel situations, so the first thing you should do to spice up your sex life is try something new. Lighting candles and playing music to set the mood, taking a sex toy to bed, or being intimate in a new location can all increase dopamine levels. If you are

At least one in three people has an introverted personality. Susan Cain’s new book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, discusses the problems introverted people face in our society. Cain believes society has created an extrovert ideal that has spread to schooling, child-rearing, and relationships. This ideal states that

Authentic communication is an art that demands not only that we voice our own needs and opinions, but also that we genuinely listen to others. ‘Speaking to’ someone is much different than ‘speaking with’ someone. ‘Speaking with’ someone requires a shift in perspective from one of control to one of collaboration. ‘Speaking with’ someone requires

In her book, Living Well, Despite Catchin’ Hell, Dr. Melody McCloud gives wisdom that applies equally to medicine and to interpersonal relationships. In medicine and in relationships we must strive first to do no harm. Cutting off communication and intimacies can seriously damage your relationship. For example, women sometimes withhold sex as punishment or use

We all know friendships are important to our happiness, wellbeing, and personal growth. A new book, Two Plus Two: Couples and Their Couple Friendships, by Geoffrey Greif and Kathleen Holtz Deal, delves into the realm of the importance of couples being friends with other couples. Couple friendships help us grow as individuals and strengthen our

Conventional wisdom often limits our chances at finding solutions for pressing issues. There is value to approaching common issues from fresh angles. Stephen Dubner, co-author of “Freakonomics”, argues the president has a limited scope to his abilities, and obsessive focus on the president takes time away from other very worthy stories. Susan Cain, author of

When we compare ourselves with others, we can choose to copy their positive qualities or be jealous of them. Negative comparison can lead to envy, jealousy, and lowered self-esteem. Avoid negative comparisons; instead, focus on your strengths, and if you must compare yourself to someone, choose a person from whom you can learn. Instead of

Successful relationships take daily attention to keep them strong. Compliment your partner, be compassionate regarding his or her foibles, and do one special thing for your partner every day. Let go of having to be right. When you’re arguing, take time to cool off. If your spouse is annoying you, do not complain to friends