Tag Archives: improving 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: Love is a Verb

How we use our words can shape our thoughts and attitudes. Love is many-splendored indeed, and we use the word “love” in many ways. Anna says, “I’m not in love with my husband anymore. We used to be in love, … 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: Wit’s end?

Are you ever at your “wit’s end?” You try everything you can think of to respond to a problem (usually a person-related problem), but nothing works to create the result you want. Interactions with others are sometimes delightful, other times … 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: 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: 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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Reality Check: Compatibility and need profiles

Last post, I suggested that it can be interesting and helpful to understand your need strength profile. That is, rate how strong each of these five basic needs are for you: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun. What … Continue reading

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