Tag Archives: improving relationships

Reality Check: Choice and Personal Freedom

Posted on February 24, 2012 by RealityCheck

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 →

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

Posted on February 9, 2012 by RealityCheck

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 →

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The Solving Circle

Posted on December 23, 2011 by RealityCheck

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

Posted on December 17, 2011 by RealityCheck

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

Posted on December 12, 2011 by RealityCheck

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

Posted on December 2, 2011 by RealityCheck

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?

Posted on November 26, 2011 by RealityCheck

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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Is it Nagging? Or Informing?

Posted on October 28, 2011 by RealityCheck

“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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Everybody’s still picking on Johnny

Posted on September 12, 2011 by RealityCheck

Firmly fixed in Johnny’s mind is the idea that life is unfair. More specifically, life is unfair to him. Whether it’s at work, with his parents, his teachers, even with his friends, Johnny often feels as if he is under … Continue reading →

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The Lead Management Agenda

Posted on September 12, 2011 by RealityCheck

When we think of relationships, we usually think of friends, family members, and social acquaintances. However, relationships at work are important too. In fact, we may spend more time with co-workers, bosses, and employees than we do with our friends … Continue reading →

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