By Jamie C. Williamson, PhD Couples get what they expect. One primary difference between couples who make it and those who don’t is that those who stay happy have high expectations for marriage and each other. This may seem a bit counterintuitive. I’m sure you’ve heard many relationship “experts” (or your own mom) say that
communication
How to Date Your Spouse: 6 Tips for Successful Date Nights
By Jamie C. Williamson, PhD Most couples know they are supposed to have a regular “Date Night”. Unfortunately, along the way, they let familiar routines and their life partner/parenting roles overshadow their ongoing need for novel activities and their role as romantic partners. They just can’t seem to have a night out that doesn’t involve
Happy Couples Have Attitude of Gratitude
Adopt an attitude of gratitude. Couples who mutually express gratitude to each other enhance intimacy and bolster their levels of relationship satisfaction.
These 3 R’s Let Your Happy Relationship Bloom Naturally
Spring reminds us to refresh, renew, and improve our relationships. These 3 R's guide the relationship improvement process.
Money Can’t Buy Love, But the Right Gift Can
by Jamie C. Williamson, PhD ‘tis the season. But how do you know the right gift to give your partner? Most gift givers assume that a more expensive present will be more appreciated, yet, receivers don’t appreciate expensive gifts more than other less expensive gifts. And, that goes for gifts of clothes, wine, home
4 Easy Steps to Coping with Perpetual Marital Conflict
By Jamie C. Williamson, PhD Most marital conflict is unsolvable. In fact, according to renowned relationship researcher John Gottman, 69% of marital conflicts are perpetual problems that couples will never resolve. Only 31% of the problems in marriage are solvable. This is true for both happy couples and unhappy couples. So, it is not the
This 1 Simple Act Primes Your Marriage for Romance
By Jamie C. Williamson, PhD The secret to long-lasting romance in marriage is simple, inexpensive, and fool proof. You’ve probably figured out that it isn’t a candlelit dinner on your anniversary or the obligatory sex that followed. And, unless you learn this one simple secret it won’t be your long-anticipated romantic get-away either. Events designed
New School Year – Time to Refresh Your Family Communication Patterns
A new school year is a perfect time to refresh your approach to parenting and renew the way you interact with your kids. As kids grow and change, your family communication patterns should change, too.
Improve Communication in Your Marriage Before it’s too Late
by Jamie C. Williamson, PhD Wondering how to improve communication in your marriage? Frequent problems don’t ruin a marriage. But, ineffective communication can. So, you might need to improve communication in your marriage before it’s too late. If it seems that all you and your spouse do is fight about money, the kids, sex, and