Tag Archives: improving relationships

Reality Check: Speak up or stand down, continued

We’ve already looked at a couple who had neglected to share important aspects of their lives with each other until it was almost too late. It is important to recognize when it’s time to speak up about what you are … Continue reading

Posted in Helping Others | Tagged , | Comments Off on Reality Check: Speak up or stand down, continued

Reality Check: Speak up or stand down?

We each have our special qualities, yet groups of us share characteristics, such as whether one is an introvert or extravert. In her book, “Gifts Differing,” Isabel Briggs Myers states that there are more extraverts than introverts, with extraverts being … Continue reading

Posted in Relationships | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Reality Check: Speak up or stand down?

Reality Check: Purpose and Information

Nick has literally been handed his purpose in life and it certainly didn’t appear on a silver platter. No, his purpose rolled up in a stroller, in the form of his son Kyle. As suggested last column, Nick has mixed … Continue reading

Posted in Perception & Reality | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Reality Check: Purpose and Information

Reality Check: Choice and Personal Freedom

The theory underlying Reality Therapy is outlined in the book, “Choice Theory,” with the subtitle, “A new psychology of personal freedom.”  What does choice theory have to do with personal freedom? Dr. Glasser refers to the need for freedom as … Continue reading

Posted in Personal Freedom | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Reality Check: Choice and Personal Freedom

Reality Check: “Constructive” Criticism; Is it a Con?

People often try to be helpful, though it might not seem that way when you’re on the receiving end of their helpfulness. For example, think about how you would feel if you were told, “You seem awfully cranky. You should … Continue reading

Posted in Blame, Criticism & more | Tagged , , , | Comments Off on Reality Check: “Constructive” Criticism; Is it a Con?

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

Posted in Marriage | Tagged , , | Comments Off on The Solving Circle

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

Posted in Marriage | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Love, Belonging, and Compatibility

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

Posted in Marriage | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Compatibility and Power

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

Posted in Marriage | Tagged , | Comments Off on Survival, Security, and Compatibility

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

Posted in Marriage | Tagged , | Comments Off on What Makes Couples Compatible?