The Sandwich Generation and Communication

As members of the time-starved Sandwich Generation, do you sometimes wonder how you're going to get it all done? And now we're asking you to focus on your communication with your partner. Don't worry, these tips aren't too hard to integrate into your bag of tricks. And in the long run it'll help your other relationships:

Limit your arguments. If the situation between the two of you is tense, small annoyances can seem bigger than before. When you argue, allowing bad feelings to fester only makes it worse. Don't turn your quarrel into something more or attach your reactions to another issue. Agree that you will together explore the problems in your relationship. And spend time learning about conflict resolution, direct communication and active listening skills. There's a lot of information available through relationship workshops, on the Internet and in the self help section of the bookstore.

Begin a process of serious talking. Can't do it alone? If you really want to work out your differences, you might consider consulting with a marital therapist or joining a couples' support group. When you each understand more about the other's needs and capabilities, you'll be clearer about the compromises you have to make. Then it will be up to both of you to decide whether or not you're willing to do the hard work. That may include efforts to change your current expectations, redefine what marriage means to you and create new goals for the relationship.

Click on the title above and read an article on HerMentorCenter.com about couples' communication from the male boomer perspective. And share your ideas about what works in your relationship.

Relationships and Troubling Economic Times

Troubling economic times like these can take their toll on relationships. You may be worried about ending up like Brenda and Eddie, the couple in Billy Joel's song, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant:

They started to fight
when the money got tight
and they just didn't count on the tears.

But unlike Brenda and Eddie, who 'got a divorce as a matter of course,' that may not be an option. Many couples can't possibly sell their home in a depressed market, pay steep lawyers' fees or make ends meet without sharing expenses.

Of course, a perfect marriage would be free of financial controversy. But during this economic crisis, the reality is that you need to learn new money management skills and face tough financial decisions – while at the same time making your relationship work. Not an easy task. We'll be sharing practical tips all week that will give you and your marriage a better chance.

Get started right now by clicking on the title above - that will take you to www.HerMentorCenter.com and an article about Five Tips for Fighting Fair.