Sunday, August 1, 2010

Living the Single Life Today

Is being single in today's society more difficult than ever before?  Do you wonder about the experiences of other singles?


This documentary gives an in-depth look into the strengths and weaknesses of single life.  It is a good resource to show those of you who are single, that you are not alone.  Also for those who are not currently single, this film can increase your understanding of what your single friends may experience.



For more information, check out Single: A Documentary Film

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Blogger Update

I would like to apologize to my loyal blog readers and to all of my new daily visitors for the lack of posting lately.  I am in the process of moving and things have been a little hectic.


I am resuming my normal posting schedule, so keep coming back to the site for exciting relationship content.


Thanks and keep reading!


MORE TO COME......

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Is It Time To Clean Your Relationship Closet?




Although it is not currently Spring, it is never too early or too late to do a bit of relationship "Spring Cleaning".  Are there people in your life who should not be there?  Should you try to repair toxic relationships or move on?  



Here is an article that will help to tidy your relationship closet. 


Thursday, July 22, 2010

Dating Your Spouse/Partner

People have a natural tendency to stop dating each other when they enter into a serious relationship.  They become comfortable with one another.  They decrease (or end) many of the behaviors which got them into the relationship in the first place.  With such common practice, it is no wonder why many are unfulfilled in long-term committed relationships.

Why do relationships change over time?  
Sage advice from my mother - "Do only those things in a relationship that you can/will continue in the long run." This statement resonates an important feature for most relationships.  If someone was worth the effort during the chase, why are they no longer worth the effort once they are caught?  

Research on conflict between couples highlights the loss of behavioral patterns that existed during courtship.  Couples who have been married for many years no longer act like newlyweds.  

They may rarely:

  • Express genuine affection (hugs, kisses, love play)
  • Show how much they appreciate each other (love notes, doing things for no reason)
  • Display joy when they see each other (especially after being apart for some time)
  • Work on their friendship (ask about goals, dreams, desires)
  • Date (go out without children, share new experiences)
  • Share positive feelings
  • Surrender to let the other person win
  • See sex as a fun activity instead of a chore
  • Make their relationship a priority

Relationships are NOT EASY and they require HARD work full of emotion, thought, and action. This is especially true for long-term relationships.  Effort must continue throughout and it must be reciprocal with both continuing to woo each other (even if at different times) and not take each other for granted.  These are the things that make the beginning of relationships exciting and gratifying. 

   
How to continue dating your spouse/partner:
  1. Practice the bulleted behaviors above 
  2. Work on the Marriage Plan (even if you are not married) as a couple
  3. Follow John Gottman's Magic Five Hours and the 5 to 1 Ratio of Couple Interactions
  4. Enjoy each other!