Open, difficult conversations can help resolve conflicts and deepen friendships.
Regular, honest communication is key in improving marital intimacy and resolving relationship issues.
Deep dives
Reconnecting with Liza
Wendy had a phone conversation with her childhood friend Liza and was surprised by how receptive and open Liza was to discuss their feelings. They had a difficult but productive conversation, and Wendy realized that there were unresolved issues before their fight last year. She discovered Liza's concerns about feeling judged and not being seen beyond stereotypes. Despite feeling hurt, Wendy felt capable of having ongoing conversations with Liza to determine the future of their friendship.
Initiating a conversation with her husband
Wendy had a conversation with her husband, albeit dancing around the issue for a while. Although she didn't extract all of the specifics about their relationship, she understood that it would take multiple conversations to truly communicate and resolve their issues. She expressed that she is not afraid to initiate these conversations again and feels less afraid of leaving things unsaid. While progress may be slow, Wendy is willing to put in the effort to improve communication and deepen the intimacy in her marriage.
Hey, Fellow Travelers. This week we’re in session with Wendy, who wonders whether a childhood friendship is worth saving after some conflict. We help her to move out of her comfort zone and tendency toward avoidance by opening up some difficult conversations she’s never had before--not just with her friend, but also with her husband.
If you have a dilemma you’d like to discuss with us—big or small—email us at LoriAndGuy@iHeartMedia.com.
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