Take the Mind Reading Out of Your Relationship

Is your husband or boyfriend a mind reader? Yes, of course he should be, but chances are he’s not. Indirect communication is one of the key catalysts for an argument. When you look at him and he’s clearly just not getting it, it just fans your frustration more. Instead of waiting for him to mystically “get it”, why not give it to him? Ask yourself, are you explaining your needs or expressing your thoughts as clearly as you think you are? When a disagreement surfaces, ask yourself:

• What exactly am I thinking and feeling right now?
• What do I want my spouse to know right now that he or she may not realize?
• Ask them what they think you mean.
• What am I assuming he knows that he may not have thought of?
• Am I complaining or criticizing instead of clearly stating my concern?
• Is there another way I could say this to make them understand?