We are drawn to the familiar. To experience something new, we need to become familiar with the thoughts and feelings in our minds and guide them to be consistent with the life of our dreams.

Our thoughts are the guiding force of our behaviors. Habitual thoughts may cause us to repeat unhappy patterns. These weekly Affirmations and Tips are designed to help you replace these habitual thoughts to enhance your life and your relationships.  

Responsibility 

I take responsibility for developing communication skills that lead to harmony.

In my relationships, I avoid blaming the other person and attributing any particular problem to them. I carefully consider what I want to experience in the relationship and challenge myself to seek ways to bring that experience to the relationship.

Rather than lecture or accuse, I strive to model healthy communication. I ask myself, what can I do to exemplify more love for myself and the other person?

If I do not feel heard, I examine if I am listening well.

If I do not feel respected, I consider how I can be more respectful.

If I feel unappreciated, I strive to appreciate.

Tip:  Seek to stay present to communication with the people in your life and respond intentionally. Slow yourself down. If you find yourself feeling critical of how your partner is communicating, ask yourself, how would I respond if they were communicating in a healthy way? Proceed as if you were fully supported in communicating in a healthy way. Allow the support for healthy communication to come from within yourself, rather than expecting it to come from your partner.

Sometimes due to co-dependent patterns or destructive childhood family dynamics, it is hard to know what is healthy. One of the benefits of therapy is to examine how to establish a healthy sense of self and boundaries. When we are confident in where we end and someone else begins, it is easier to communicate in healthy ways.

If you find yourself questioning what is your responsibility or are easily manipulated by others’ upset feelings, consider utilizing individual therapy or coming with your partner to Imago Relationship Therapy. I would be honored to support you in your growth process.

©2019 Laura Aube

Missed an Affirmation or Tip?  Click here to access the Relationship Affirmations Archives! 

Imago Relationship Therapy

Imago Relationship Therapy provides you and your partner a safe place to learn how to engage in healthy communication. Utilizing Imago Therapy with your partner can deepen your relationship and your love and acceptance of one another. In a private couples or family Imago Therapy session, you receive expert guidance and practice using tools like curiosity, listening, receptivity, and understanding.

I would be honored to help you on your journey of living from your true self and creating relaxed, joyful relationships. To learn more or schedule a session, call (816) 359-1885 or email laura@creativegrowthandhealing.com. 

Laura Aube, LPC, ATR-BC, Certified Imago Therapist
creativegrowthandhealing.com
Email: laura@creativegrowthandhealing.com
Phone:  816-359-1885
Address:  207 South Washington Street, Raymore, MO 64083

Laura Aube is a licensed Counselor in the State of Missouri. She has advanced training as a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, as well as a fully-credentialed Art Therapist. Laura has twenty-five years of experience as a therapist and specialized expertise in grief, trauma, couples, and family therapy.