This is Part 2 of a two-part series on how to reduce defensiveness and have better mental health as well as more peace and productivity in your personal and professional relationships. As we explained last time, defensiveness is dangerous in marriage and relationships (friends, family, workplace, and so on). How do we interrupt the cycle…
This is Part 1 of a two-part series on how to notice and address defensiveness in yourself, to both have better mental health individually and much more peace and productivity in your personal and professional relationships. One of the privileges of my work is hearing from readers or event attendees who get an “a-ha” moment…
A few weeks ago, it was incredible to see more than 7,000 Christian counselors, pastors, coaches, and ministry leaders converge on the American Association of Christian Counselors World Conference in Nashville. For those of you who are leaders and pour yourselves out encouraging others, I want to take a moment to encourage you. I was…
We’re a full year from the next presidential election, but does anyone else feel like it’s already in full swing? I know. Too soon. As a former public policy analyst who cares deeply about both policy issues and family relationships, I’m going to try to walk the fine line between the two today. In fact,…
Not long ago I was presenting some of my research at a national summit for relationship educators. This incredible and dedicated group included those who work with and support marriages every day in cities around the country. They are doing amazing and often challenging work. And yet I sensed an undercurrent of discouragement about the…
Many of you walked with me through my breast cancer journey the last two years, and I’m still so filled with gratitude for the support you offered. Even now I vividly remember my response when a mammogram revealed cancer: There is no way that is what I just heard. It was surreal. Yet, when the…
