Balancing a demanding job with the needs of your partner is an everyday challenge for millions of us. And while many of us feel that our loved ones work far more than they should, we acknowledge that careers are important – both for financial and personal reasons. If one of you works far more than
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When your spouse or partner is in the midst of a personal crisis, do you feel confident that you’ll know how to offer the right kind of support? Many of the couples I see in marriage therapy struggle to work together effectively during dark times. The reasons for their difficulties usually go far beyond the
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All of us make assumptions in our relationships. These “educated guesses” about what our spouses are thinking, feeling or doing may come from influences such as the media or what we’ve learned from family and friends. However, assuming we know where our partners stand — instead of taking time to ask them directly – is
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Most married people struggle with in-law issues at some point in time. If you feel your in-laws don’t accept you or they’re critical of your spouse, you are experiencing some of the conflicts that can plague these close family relationships. Having difficulties with your in-laws doesn’t mean you’re in a troubled marriage, though. Conflict of
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Do you pay more attention to your smartphone than your spouse? Have you been avoiding sex – or hiding big purchases from your partner? These are just a few examples of behaviors that can do serious harm to your relationship, according to marriage counselors who work closely with couples. The good news is that it’s
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Feeling close to your spouse or partner is often the result of spending time together, doing things you both enjoy. Partners who make it a point to reserve time for each other find that their shared experiences give them a common frame of reference and increase the positive, loving feelings they have for one another.
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Have you ever clashed with your spouse or partner over money? If you answered yes, you’re in good company. Research shows that financial concerns are a major source of conflict for couples. According to one survey on stress, nearly one-third of adults with partners reported that they regularly fight about money. Research also shows that
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Who doesn’t love a wedding? These special events are romantic, beautiful and filled with meaning. People come from near and far to witness your union as you express your commitment to one another. But with all the attention on the big day, you may not spend an equal amount of time reflecting on the marriage
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If you’ve been in love for a long time, it’s natural to hit a stage when things begin to feel a bit of routine. Even if you get along well and appreciate each other, you may wonder if feelings of boredom are a red flag revealing that your relationship is in trouble. Does an occasional
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We often use the word intimacy as a stand-in when we’re talking about sex. But if you are in a close relationship, married or not, you probably realize that they are not exactly the same thing. All of us have the capacity to be intimate with family members or dear friends, even though those relationships
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