Survival Tips for Couples in Hard Economic Times
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Hard economic times put a heaven burden on couples. When money is tight, people get tense and agitated because bills can't be paid and families have to cut back on little luxuries they are accustomed to. Josh Klapow, Ph.D, Associate Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham suggests these tips for couples who are facing the money burden.1. Keep a cool head. "When your emotions are high - be it anger, sadness, frustration - thoughts get cloudy. Relax, breathe, wait 2-10 minutes then start to talk," Klapow said.
2. Start easy. Arguments often start because of a critical remark or an angry tone. "Try to bring up problems and mistakes gently and without blame," he said.
3. Don't assume. "Talk about your feelings, not what you think your spouse or partner is feeling. Describe your feelings in first person with 'I' and explain why," Klapow said.
4. Think then speak. "The goal of the conversation should be to problem-solve, not to win. Remember, once the words are out you cannot take them back," he said.
5. Repair and recover. "Don't let the discussion get out of control. End on a positive, or at least neutral, note. Lean on patience, change the topic or offer a positive comment to let the other person know you're part of the same team," Klapow said.
posted by The Mom Salon Editors @ 12:46 PM,
