Category Archives: Relationships

Reality Check: A “Map” of Relationships

Responses to the column that asked, “Are you in the people business?” have encouraged me to take this “people business” a little further. If (or when) you realize that you are in the “people business,” then you might find it … Continue reading

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Reality Check: The People Business

Are you in the “people business”? Almost certainly, the answer is… yes! In their book, Have a Nice Conflict, Scudder, Patterson, and Mitchell assert that everyone is in the people business. There’s nary a line of work where people aren’t … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Fume or Fun?

Some situations seem to call for obvious reactions. However, even when we think there’s only one logical response, there are often many options available for our choosing. How can we figure out which choice is most effective? Doris’s husband, Bob, … Continue reading

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Reality Check: The Other Toxin

If you pay attention to health-related matters, then you’ve heard of toxins. Whether in air, food, or water, toxins are often suspected of causing disease. There’s another toxin that can have a significant impact on one’s life: the toxic relationship! … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Turn Around

Relationships have differences. If those differences aren’t handled well, they can lead to unfortunate consequences: marriage breakup, financial hardship, traumatized children. Differences at work can lead to people quitting or being fired, to stress, anxiety, lost productivity, and lost opportunities. … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Apologies, Demands, and Power

An apology is often an effective response when someone has been wronged. Yet, there are also unsatisfying apology scenarios where someone—the victim, the offender, or both—walk away feeling, well…unsatisfied. You know something is still not OK, even if you can’t … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Perspectives on Apologies

Have you ever said or done something thoughtless that ended up hurting somebody you care deeply about? If so, join the club! Whether it was a massive error or a minor blunder, we’re human and are known to make mistakes. … Continue reading

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Reality Check: A little respect, please

To strengthen relationships and build satisfying lives, choice theory promotes seven caring habits, including the habit of respect. What’s the impact of respect in a relationship? Henry was forced to retire from a well-paying, satisfying career where he had enjoyed … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Both Sides Now

No matter how close two people are, they will have differences. What do we do when we differ? Sometimes we blame: “It’s your fault…” We might try bribery: “If you come home, I’ll let you go fishing.” Or we might … Continue reading

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Reality Check: Criticism—The Great Dissatisfier

Do you seek to be the best you can be? Aspiring to excellence is a wonderful motivator. Actions that you take to improve yourself, your work, and your relationships can have a positive impact on your quality of life. Do … Continue reading

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