Recently, my wife, Susan and I had one of those conflicts where we started talking about one thing, but ended up listing everything that we sometimes find irritating about each other.  All of it could have been avoided if we just remembered some important facts. First, we are equal opportunity agitators.  We both do things that annoy each other, and we need to step back and look at ourselves first. Second, it’s...

A recent study from my alma mater, the University of Florida, revealed that major childhood stresses—like divorce, exposure to substance abuse, and economic hardship—have an almost immediate negative impact on a child’s health.  So, what can you do? First, protect your child from the stress of divorce. Sometimes divorce is beyond the control of a spouse. However, there are times when couples all too quickly buy...

That may sound strange, but last month when my wife had yet another serious heart surgery, I struggled to trust God more than I thought I would…and even more than Susan did.  My lack of trust came in part from my own helplessness…not being in control. She was in the hands of a surgeon who doesn’t know or love her like I do. But control is a bit of a myth…there are so many things I cannot control in life.  Sure, I...

Part of being a great dad…an All Pro Dad, means using words that encourage your kids.  It means taking every opportunity you get to make your child feel special and loved by you.  So here are some things you should say to your kids every day.  First say, “I love you.”  Love is the foundation for building a strong relationship with your kids.  And since you can never say it too often, tell your kids you love...

Everyone needs affirmation, encouragement, and compliments…your children do too. And the best person to give them that boost they need is YOU: their parent. So to help get you started, here are some compliments your kids need to hear.  First, compliment their character.  When your child demonstrates honesty, integrity, or kindness, take them aside and offer a sincere compliment.  Second, compliment their...

If so, I’ve got some great ways to do it. First, always lecture and never listen. Don’t think about what they are thinking or feeling, just think about what you want to say to your child and let it rip. When your child tries to respond, cut him off.  Second, discipline when you’re angry. Be as harsh as you can and yell as loud as you can. Third, use words that tear down. Sarcastic, unsupportive, and disrespectful...

In the wild, prodding a porcupine with a stick or by yelling doesn’t work very well…it just makes the porcupine more angry. You risk being on the receiving end of some sharp, painful quills. It’s the same way in our relationships. If you prod a porcupine spouse, teen, or in-law, with your words, things usually don’t go to well. Saying things like “What’s your problem?” just makes them even more mad.  There are...