Mar
Weekly Executive Meetings
I always encourage my clients to schedule a weekly meeting with their significant other outside of their residence. Any type of public place will work (a restaurant, library, coffee shop, etc.) The reason for the public place is we tend to be conscious of our behavior, the tone of our voice and also on our best behavior. 
This meeting should be scheduled for one hour. During this hour you can bring up any negative things that occurred during the week and also any “hot” issues. The last ten minutes of the meeting are reserved for something fun. Ideally, try to make it the same day of the week at the same restaurant.
A dear friend of mine added to what I was already recommending and I think this makes the meeting even better.
1) Understand that this conversation is one of many conversations; realize that this is a part of series, of conversations; nothing is forever.
2) You never say “No”. Say maybe, later, I am going to think about this, let’s discuss it more at this time, I’m not excited about … and I’ll think about it some more.
3) Always help the other person save face; always find something redeeming about the other person’s point of view.
Some helpful tips:
1) Practice being present and really listen.
2) Seek to understand before being understood.
3) Be inquisitive by asking why, when did that happen, what makes you think that, tell me more about that.
4) Work at overlooking each other’s idiosyncrasies.
Until next time,
Brenda
