If your mom nagged you about the importance of good posture, she knew what she was talking about.  Good physical posture can have positive effects. The same thing is true in relationships. Good relational posture is also important.  For healthier relationships, start with a posture of humility. Humility acknowledges that you need other people—and not just to do what you want them to. Humility recognizes other...

Many of us expect our spouse to “just know” what we are thinking or feeling.  After years with each other, we begin to expect our spouse to know we’ve had a bad day, that we’re tired, or that we want affection.  They “should just know,” right?  Well, that’s not realistic!  Years of experience make it easier to predict your spouse’s response, but it’s no substitute for communication.  If you want your spouse to...

Every parent wonders, sooner or later, if the values they are teaching their kids will actually stick with them. Personal experience and visits with hundreds of parents have convinced me that planting certain seeds in your child’s life will strengthen your positive influence on them.  Here are a few of those seeds. First, focus on making memories that will last. Camping, fishing, hiking, biking, family...

The best time for marriage counseling is before you need it.  Marriage counseling teaches couples how to work through their differences, communicate better, and solve problems in the relationship.  So why don’t more people do it?  Well, many couples feel that their private life should be just that—private.  They feel there is a stigma associated with seeking counseling.  But there are times when a third party...

Great leaders build strong families.  Here are 3 tools to help you lead your family well.  Tool one: Love.  Loving your spouse and kids is key to building a stronger family.  Love must be your highest priority.  You must love your family well to lead your family well.  Tool two: Serve.  Serving your family and putting their needs above your own shows you want to help them succeed in whatever they are doing.  Tool...

In a merger, two groups contract to join forces within a certain period of time. In a marriage, two people covenant to become one—and that's a lifelong process.  It doesn't just happen in deep discussions and major moments, great as those times may be.  It also occurs in the small, daily things of life when you are intentional about growing together with your spouse. Whether it's cooking together, exercising...

As the years tick away, it’s easy to treat your anniversary like it’s no big deal.  Well, even if you don’t have an elaborate celebration, taking the time to honor your commitment can be uplifting for your marriage.  So, at the very least, get a card, write a note and share how much your spouse means to you.  Then, tell them face-to-face, you love them.  Spend time with your spouse, whether it’s a romantic evening...