My daughter knows how to ask for things nicely, but lately she’s discovered that when she does, sometimes the answer is “No.” As a result, she’s been experimenting with ways to avoid getting the answer she doesn’t want. Instead of asking, she announces things like, “I’m just going to have a taste of this butter,” […]
At some point in all real relationships- whether romantic, parental, or platonic- one person is going to do something that the other person dislikes. It is impossible to be genuine and truthful in relationship without sometimes disappointing or frustrating the people you have relationships with. Communicating in advance, and following through with what has been […]
Recently, I discovered an interesting article on a financial blog titled “Kickstart New Habits with a 30 Day Challenge.” It lists some great ideas for trying to save money, reduce clutter, and earn more money. I like this concept because it is a great way to try on a new habit to see whether it […]
As I’ve mentioned before, I like to look at the search terms people use to find this site. I’ve noticed that people regularly search about whether to give their children the silent treatment. I have a very strong opinion about this, and feel that parents should never give their children the silent treatment. To avoid […]
Occasionally, I am able to respond to comments on this blog, and today is one of those times. In response to the post “Dealing with the Silent Treatment,” Meltdown asks what the difference is between “stonewalling” and the silent treatment. Here is the gist of the comment: “My husband shuts down, walks away or completely […]
Telling yourself that you deserve love is one thing, but actually believing it and acting like it is something else. If you grew up believing that you don’t deserve love, then that belief has ruled your relationship actions for your whole life. Lifelong actions become habits. Turning those habits around takes awareness and practice. If […]
Some days I just hate to give consequences. The ensuing tantrum from my daughter is no fun to deal with. I often hope that the threat of the consequence is enough to get her to listen to me. I’ve definitely learned that I need to be ready to back up whatever consequence I tell her […]
I’ve written quite a few posts about the silent treatment, and have gotten very many responses from people who are on the receiving end of it. I also have had a few responses from people who believe themselves to be silent treatment givers. Some of the people who are on the silent side of things […]
Recently, in response to my post “Dealing with the Silent Treatment” a commenter expressed frustration with being given the silent treatment, and the lack of advice in how to feel better. Here is an excerpt from the comment: “I can’t just suddenly go about my daily life acting normal. I don’t get why you’d fake […]
I get a lot of comments on this blog, mainly in response to my posts about the silent treatment and ultimatums in relationships. It seems that some people believe that one gender tends to be more prone toward emotionally dysfunctional behavior. For example, many readers believe that the silent treatment is a guy thing. I […]