We all carry wounds from our childhood. It might be that you were teased for being chubby, you were pushed to succeed academically, or there wasn’t enough to eat. When these wounds are left unresolved, we might find ourselves as …
Tag: Relationships
Understanding the 5 Stages of a Relationship
One common myth about great relationships is that there are no arguments or disagreements. The Gottmans, fantastic relationship experts who have done lots of research in this area, disagree. It is NORMAL to have conflict in a relationship; the issue …
Strong Friendships are the Secret to Relationship Success
When there is a strong friendship, repairs in the relationship work better. In the Gottman’s book “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work” (1999), they talk about the importance of repairs. In any relationship, we have to expect to have …
Key Components for Boundary Setting with In-Laws
This is a personal one…for me, point 3, ‘manage your expectations’ was a huge learning with my in-laws. I grew up with basically six people in my family; my mum, dad, sister, nan, and grandad (my mother’s parents), and we …
Tips for Boundary Setting with In-Laws
I have received many DMs about the struggle to merge two different families with differing expectations, norms, and values. The critical thing to remember with in-laws is to have a united front with your partner. This is where I see …
Setting Boundaries when Dating
Dating boundaries are important because they reflect the kinds of boundaries we have in other parts of our lives. If our boundaries are non-existent in the beginning, it can be challenging to reinstate them later on. Dating boundaries can be …
Steps for Successful Boundary Setting
Like any form of self-care that we have not grown up with, we have to learn how to do it at some time. There is no better time than now. Think of strengthening your boundaries as a radical act of …
Recognising Unhealthy Boundaries with Parents
As we grow older, it is natural that boundaries with our parents shift. As a 3-year-old, we will need someone to come with us to the bathroom, but not as a 12-year-old. As we move into the teenage years, it …
What Respecting Boundaries Might Sound Like
In many intimate relationships, especially with friends and partners, we get used to them doing certain things and playing certain roles in our lives. It can be difficult at first when those people decide they need to stop doing those …
Why Apologies Are Important
Saying sorry is important when it is done with sincerity and when real actions are taken to make amends and to right the wrong that was done. An apology can be a powerful gift for both the giver and the …