Marriage

What do I do if my spouse always wants his/ her way?

While compromise is important in a marriage, and we sometimes do things just for the other person, if we are always doing what one person wants, we eventually will begin to resent him or her. Try to find a time when there is nothing going on (not on your way out the door to do something) and calmly tell your spouse how you feel. It is best to say something like, “When we only do what you want to do, I feel like my needs don’t count.” If he or she will not listen or dismisses what you say, explain you are trying to share your feelings and not accusing them of anything.

Relationships

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Work

Someone at work is trying to sabotage my career. Should I confront them or let it go?

This can be tough in a time when it is not always easy to find a job. First, you must commit yourself to not getting drawn into arguments of he said, she said. Maintain your dignity and don’t try to make them like you either. Do your work to the best of your ability. If the person has superiority, the best you can do is to let them know that even though they may not like you, you are confident in your abilities and hope you can develop a working relationship. If they are your equal, it is basically the same. If you let your fear of losing your job control how you react, you will be sacrificing your respect for a job, which is a high price to pay.

Parenting

My 14 son is failing all his classes. What do I do? He doesn’t seem to care at all.

Fourteen is a tough time for boys and girls because they are trying to define themselves and break free from their parent’s control. This is a normal process, and can sometimes appear to be a lack of caring. I would try talking to him at a time when there is no pressure—maybe take him out to eat and just listen to him and what he has to say. Say something like, “tell me about school. What is it that I don’t understand.” Be patient and don’t rush him or finish his sentences or counteract what he says. He will probably say things like it is boring, etc., but just listen. Your first order of business is to figure out where his lack of motivation is coming from. If you suspect something such as drugs or alcohol use, immediately test him and seek professional advice.

Friendships

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Addictions

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Other

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