Blog - First Things First

5 Tips for Understanding Your Strong-Willed Spouse

When you both bring your whole and best selves to the table, your relationship benefits.

When I first sat down to write this blog, I asked myself, “Why me? Why am I writing a blog on how to understand a strong-willed spouse?” The answer followed quickly: “YOU ARE A STRONG-WILLED SPOUSE.” I must confess this is true. I was a strong-willed child who now is a strong-willed spouse, and I…

What to Do When Your Spouse Talks Badly About You Behind Your Back

Organize your thoughts with these tips.

Let’s be clear about one thing: It’s inappropriate to talk negatively or disclose sensitive personal details about anyone behind their back. We have words for this sort of behavior: Gossip. Slander. Badmouthing. Talkin’ sh… mack. When your spouse does this to you, it feels extra hurtful and violating. When your spouse’s words find their way…

8 Things Every Parent Needs to Know About Empty Nest Syndrome

This new season brings new opportunities.

We’re halfway through May, and that means graduation season. Students are graduating from high school and college and starting a new chapter in their lives. New opportunities are on the horizon. But as the students begin a new chapter, so do many parents. A graduating student means the nest is emptying or possibly empty. It’s…