by Teri Claassen | Jan 11, 2018 | Communication
Have you ever used this phrase in response to realizing you’ve made a mistake? If not, you’ve likely heard it from someone who’s just upset you. The phrase “But I didn’t mean to” is often used to defend oneself, release feelings of...
by Teri Claassen | Aug 17, 2017 | Communication
Words can be uplifting and degrading. They can be inspiring and painful. Words can cause a smile and tears. Words are like toothpaste because once they are out there, you can’t take them back. The Bible warns us a lot about the tongue: Proverbs 12:18 says...
by Teri Claassen | Sep 16, 2015 | Communication, Conflict, Fighting Fair, Relationships
I spend endless hours teaching people how to communicate effectively. It is amazing how easy it is to fall into poor habits. Many people struggle with even realizing they are trapped in a bad communication habit. Here are 3 common communication patterns people get...
by Teri Claassen | Sep 9, 2015 | Communication, Conflict, Coping, Love, Marriage, Relationships
Milan and Kay Yerkovich’s book “How We Love” gives us a great picture of how dysfunctional attachments can cause painful patterns in relationships. Their theory introduces the 5 Love Styles that we use to cope with past pain which can often sabotage our chances for a...
by Teri Claassen | Aug 26, 2015 | Communication, Family Issues, Parenting
Every family has bumps in the road, which can create stress. But the stress can be increased significantly when the family has poor communication skills. Here are a few “Don’ts” when communicating with your family. Don’t: Give long lectures or...
by Teri Claassen | Aug 12, 2015 | Communication, Conflict, Fighting Fair, Relationships
Resolving conflict is a skill that everyone needs to work on, even if you aren’t in a relationship. There are several things to remember when entering into a confrontation that is important for it to go well. Remember conflict is going to happen in any relationship....
