We call it “the voice.” That short, dismissive, demeaning, snappy voice you save for only those you love most. This was our most recent live discussion.
Here are some highlights from the video:
- We seem to treat those we love better when others are around.
- Let’s begin to treat our spouse and kids as if we always had esteemed guests living in our home.
- What’s the underlying hurt or frustration your spouse might be dealing with that is causing “the voice?”
- Deescalate “the voice” by giving into your spouse’s criticism.
- In order to be understood, we must first understand.
- Screens can play a big role in the tone of voice we use with our spouse.
To join the discussion on Facebook, go here –>> Facebook Live Video
To watch the video on the website, go here –>> Josh + Christi Videos
I am a mature, now single, woman with grown children. Born from my own journey I have had the opportunity to seek out, learn, and grow in conflict resolution awareness and skills.
Two things I would encourage others to consider is healthy relational interactions are not always possible with, as Dr. Eggerich’s references them, “ill-willed” people, as they may not have the Other’s best in mind and possibly are unwilling to move towards the Other. Secondly, I have learned to be curious about why the Other’s behavior stirs the feelings/emotions in me that I experience. This helps me to move towards the Other with curiosity versus defensiveness, better informing ownership of my brokenness, as well as, more gently holding the Others behavior in that space that lies between us.