Comments from 8-24-10 Power Snuggle

1. When I try to tell my spouse what I want and why I want it I keep getting interrupted.  What to do?

J & B: Give your spouse an “I” message stating that you want to express your thoughts and you need to be heard and understood before they respond. Add that after you have presented your thoughts, you will want to hear what they have to say.

2. I get it that I should bite the bullet an get things off my chest, but sometimes it seems much easier to just let it go.  What’s wrong with that?

J & B: Often, when an annoyance seems small, it’s actually best to let it go. However, when you find yourself frequently confronted by the same frustrating issues, it’s best to talk about it with your partner.  Otherwise, over time you will likely find that you are  feeling resentful over issues that are never resolved because they are never discussed.

3. I agree that thinking things out first before speaking helps a great deal.  I’m no longer in an attack mode and it’s much easier to listen to each other more effectively.

J & B: Glad to read that thinking the conversation through first works well for you!

4. It is amazing that when I talk to my husband diplomatically that I get much more positive results than using a more direct approach.