The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work: A practical guide from the international bestselling relationship expert

It means treating your spouse with the same respect you offer to company. If a guest leaves an umbrella, we say, “Here. You forgot your umbrella.” We would never think of saying, “What’s wrong with you? You are constantly forgetting things. Be a little more thoughtful, for God’s sake! What am I, your slave to go picking up after you?” We are sensit

All criticism is painful. Unlike complaints—specific requests for change—criticism doesn’t make a marriage better. It inevitably makes it worse.

What should I do if you feel too tired or too busy for sex, or are not in the mood?

“When you are in pain, the world stops and I listen.”

Reunions. We recommend a hug and a kiss that lasts at least six seconds. The six-second kiss is worth coming home to.

mercy is “twice blessed. It blesses him that gives and him that takes.”

The first step in dealing with flooding is to end the discussion. Now. If you keep going, you’ll find yourself exploding at your partner or imploding (stonewalling), neither of which will get you anywhere. Don’t think, “We’ll take a break as soon as I’ve made my point,” because you’ll end up never taking a break at all. Just. Stop. Let your spouse

“What can I do to make you feel loved this coming week?”

If you feel too angry to discuss the matter gently, your best option is not to discuss it at all until you’ve calmed down.