Author Archives: RealityCheck

The Solving Circle

Very simple ideas are sometimes the most effective when trying to improve a relationship. One such idea from choice theory that can help with relationship problems is the “solving circle.” The solving circle is an abstract idea, so to make … Continue reading

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Love, Belonging, and Compatibility

The idea of love & belonging goes naturally with any discussion of compatibility, doesn’t it? After all, isn’t that why couples become couples: to satisfy their need for love & belonging? However, in choice theory, the strength of the love … Continue reading

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Compatibility and Power

Continuing our discussion of compatibility and needs, let’s look at power.  The word “power” can have negative connotations, but everyone has some need for it. In choice theory, power refers to the perfectly natural need for appreciation and recognition: knowing … Continue reading

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Survival, Security, and Compatibility

Compatibility is associated with our levels of basic needs, so when you choose a partner with the hope of living happily ever after, it’s helpful to have some idea of need levels. Let’s consider compatibility and its connection to survival/security. … Continue reading

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What Makes Couples Compatible?

Is there someone for everyone? While Choice Theory doesn’t answer that question, it does propose an answer for why some couples are more compatible than others. So whether you are in a relationship, considering a relationship, or questioning why a … Continue reading

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Contradictory Behaviours

Do you know anyone who says they want to change, but whose actions lead away from the result they say they want? It happens, and it’s much easier to recognize that behaviour in others than in us. Of course, that … Continue reading

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Self evaluate your behavioural choices

How do you react when you are faced with a challenge? All of us have problems; however, different people choose different responses. Maynard’s usual approach, described in the last column, is to withdraw from people and concentrate on his problem. … Continue reading

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What makes a choice effective?

Wouldn’t it be great if we could always choose the most effective behaviour for every situation? Wouldn’t that make our lives better and more satisfying? Some people do lead more satisfying lives than others. And while fate or luck may … Continue reading

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Is it Nagging? Or Informing?

“Honey, would you take out the trash?”  “Honey, please take out the trash.”  “Honey, Why do I have to keep telling you? The trash! The trash!” 

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Learning at Work

Young folks often associate learning with what teachers “make” us do in school. Here’s an eye-opener: the cold, hard reality is that even after graduation, learning continues. Yup! In many workplaces, you need to continuously learn if you want to … Continue reading

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