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Relationship Hacks

The 4-way test for better communication

The 4-way test for better communication

    A simple yet powerful framework can help us navigate conversations with greater skill and care. By applying the 4-Way Test to our interactions, we can cultivate more meaningful connections, build trust, and achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional spheres. The 4-Way Test, originally developed by Herbert J. Taylor to guide ethical decision-making in… Read More »The 4-way test for better communication

    Get rid of your um's and ah's hack

    How to get rid of your um’s and ah’s

      One simple technique in public speaking can significantly impact your ability to captivate and engage your audience: the purposeful pause. By strategically incorporating well-timed moments of silence into your speech, you can eliminate the overuse of filler words like “um,” “ah,” and “you know,” which often creep into our language when we’re feeling nervous or… Read More »How to get rid of your um’s and ah’s

      Share your family memories

      Share your family memories

        It’s all too easy for family memories to fade into the background. But what if I told you that by simply sharing stories during mealtimes, you could help safeguard your children’s mental health for years to come? Research indicates that teens from families who frequently reminisce about their shared experiences are less likely to face… Read More »Share your family memories

        Responsibility areas and project manager spreadsheet

        The family project manager spreadsheet

          Divide the responsibilities and mental load for a happier marriage Are you tired of feeling like the sole manager of your household, carrying the weight of endless to-do lists and mental checklists? You’re not alone. Many couples struggle with an imbalance in the “mental load” – the invisible work of planning, organizing, and executing family… Read More »The family project manager spreadsheet

          Reflect on your relationship conflicts

          Reflect on your relationship conflicts

            A simple exercise to strengthen your relationship bond Relationships are complex shared experiences, mutual understanding and inevitable conflicts. While disagreements are a natural part of any intimate partnership, how couples navigate these choppy waters can make all the difference in the strength and longevity of their connection. Recent research published in the journal Personal Relationships… Read More »Reflect on your relationship conflicts

            The HEAR technique for solving conflicts

            The HEAR technique for better communication and solving conflicts

              Conversational receptiveness is a communication approach that involves using specific words, phrases, and techniques to demonstrate engagement with and understanding of the other person’s perspective during a conversation, particularly in situations of disagreement or conflict. It aims to create a more open, respectful, and productive dialogue by focusing on listening, acknowledging the other person’s viewpoint,… Read More »The HEAR technique for better communication and solving conflicts

              Affirmation - Listening - Communication hack

              Affirmation: Validating Experiences and Strengthening Connections

                When someone shares their problems or struggles with you, offering advice or solutions is tempting. However, sometimes, they need simple affirmation—a recognition and validation of their experiences and emotions. Using the affirmation hack, you can create a supportive environment that allows the person to feel heard and understood. Imagine your friend confides in you about… Read More »Affirmation: Validating Experiences and Strengthening Connections

                Pleasing, not proving - Listening - Communication hack

                Pleasing, Not Proving: Fostering Understanding and Connection

                  When conversing with others, especially when discussing problems or differing opinions, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to prove your point. However, this approach can lead to a breakdown in communication and understanding. Instead, try using the pleasing, not proving hack, which focuses on discovering and appreciating the other person’s perspective. Imagine… Read More »Pleasing, Not Proving: Fostering Understanding and Connection