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Welcome back to another insightful episode of Mr. and Mrs. Therapy with your hosts, Tim and Ruth Olson, licensed marriage and family therapists and trauma experts. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of solving solvable problems within relationships by exploring John Gottman’s principles. Picking up from our previous discussion on distinguishing solvable issues from perpetual ones, we guide you through a comprehensive roadmap designed to effectively address and resolve conflict.

The episode begins by emphasizing the importance of a gentle startup when entering difficult conversations, to reduce defensiveness and promote an atmosphere conducive to cooperation. We walk you through seven structured steps, starting from articulating the issue clearly, practicing active listening, to brainstorming and proposing collaborative solutions. Additionally, crucial topics such as finding common ground, compromising, and agreeing on a plan are tackled to help both partners feel respected and understood.

Drawing from real-life scenarios and professional insights, we also discuss overcoming common pitfalls like reverting to old communication patterns, addressing emotional triggers, and dealing with external stressors. This empowers listeners to manage conflicts with empathy and teamwork.

Whether dealing with challenging daily disputes or navigating deeper emotional wounds, this episode provides practical strategies for strengthening your relationship's bond. Tune in for valuable tips and a step-by-step guide to transforming conflict into a catalyst for personal and relational growth.

We encourage you to practice these techniques on a small conflict this week, and share your success stories in our dedicated Facebook group. Join us as we continue to transform life's challenges into opportunities for deeper connections and healing.

[Remember, our podcast is here to spark conversations and offer insights. Join our community on our Mr. and Mrs. Therapy Podcast Group, share your experiences at podcast@mrandmrstherapy.com, and if you're seeking more personalized advice, consider booking your free coaching consultation. Please note, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment.]

{Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment. For personalized support, please seek professional help or call the National Suicide Hotline at 988 if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or needs emotional support.}

We want to work with YOU!

15 Minute Free Consultation

Start healing now! Set up a Coaching Session

Welcome to another insightful episode of Mr. and Mrs. Therapy, where hosts Tim and Ruth Olson, licensed marriage and family therapists, delve into Gottman's fifth principle of "Solving Your Solvable Problems." In this episode, they explore how identifying and managing solvable issues can lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Tim and Ruth begin by reviewing the foundational four principles from Gottman's research: building love maps, nurturing fondness and admiration, turning towards each other, and letting your partner influence you. These steps, they emphasize, are crucial in forming a strong relationship base before tackling problems.

The episode further explains the distinction between solvable and perpetual problems. Solvable issues are situational conflicts such as chores, scheduling, and financial management, which can be addressed with practical solutions. On the other hand, perpetual problems often arise from core personality traits or values and require ongoing management and acceptance.

Listeners are encouraged to distinguish between these two types of problems, focusing their energy on resolving solvable issues to prevent resentment and build confidence within the relationship. Tim and Ruth highlight the importance of protecting emotional bandwidth by managing everyday stressors, allowing couples to be better equipped for tackling deeper, more complex challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Tim and Ruth provide listeners with strategies for identifying their unique solvable and perpetual problems, laying the groundwork for further resolution in upcoming episodes. This episode is essential for anyone looking to enhance their relationship dynamics through effective problem-solving techniques.

[Remember, our podcast is here to spark conversations and offer insights. Join our community on our Mr. and Mrs. Therapy Podcast Group, share your experiences at podcast@mrandmrstherapy.com, and if you're seeking more personalized advice, consider booking your free coaching consultation. Please note, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment.]

{Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment. For personalized support, please seek professional help or call the National Suicide Hotline at 988 if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or needs emotional support.}

We want to work with YOU!

15 Minute Free Consultation

Start healing now! Set up a Coaching Session

Welcome to another insightful episode of Mr. and Mrs. Therapy, hosted by Tim and Ruth Olson, licensed marriage and family therapists. This week, we continue our exploration of John Gottman's landmark book, "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work," with a deep dive into the fourth principle: letting your partner influence you.

In this episode, Tim and Ruth tackle some common obstacles couples face when sharing mutual influence, such as the fear of losing autonomy and the impact of ego and past traumas. They provide constructive strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing that influence should be reciprocal and beneficial for both partners.

The discussion offers practical steps for embracing influence, including learning how to listen actively, valuing your partner's expertise, and practicing small tests of openness. With their trademark blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Tim and Ruth guide listeners on how maintaining humility and mutual respect can transform challenges into opportunities for deeper connection.

Join the Olsons as they empower you with the skills needed to foster healthier communication and enduring love in your relationship. Tune in for expert advice, engaging dialogue, and strategies that can help turn adversity into triumph in your marriage.

[Remember, our podcast is here to spark conversations and offer insights. Join our community on our Mr. and Mrs. Therapy Podcast Group, share your experiences at podcast@mrandmrstherapy.com, and if you're seeking more personalized advice, consider booking your free coaching consultation. Please note, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment.]

{Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnosis or treatment. For personalized support, please seek professional help or call the National Suicide Hotline at 988 if you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or needs emotional support.}