Marriage Communication: Nagging Doesn’t Work

Nagging doesn’t work – no matter how well intentioned you are or how frustrated you may be – just nagging your spouse about chores, bills, responsibilities or whatever it is you are wanting them to do – well, it doesn’t work. Now, before you tell me that when you constantly remind them to do something, they do in fact do it – this makes your form of nagging successful, let me counter that with this question: If you didn’t nag them the next time, would they remember? Chances are, once you’ve created the cycle where you remind your spouse to … Continue reading

Accentuate the Positive: Start Today

In a recent article, Four Tips for a Healthy Marriage, I asked this question: “Do we look for and mention the positive things our spouses do and say, or are we often too quick to make note of the negative?” It is important to discuss differences. I’m not suggesting otherwise, but being quick to find fault without taking the time to notice the good things our mates say and do as well, can lead to resentment and bitterness. It’s wise to remember that constructive criticism works better and it works best when applied along with other positive, more complimentary statements. … Continue reading