Relationships Archives - Self-Help Toons

7 Principles That Make Relationships Work (Gottman Method)

In his decades of research on relationships, Dr. John Gottman has identified seven key principles that can make or break a relationship. These principles aren’t quick fixes, but habits that can strengthen a relationship over time. Gottman’s research shows that relationships thrive when partners communicate openly, respect each other, and work together to solve problems. […]

Communicate Better In Your Relationship With Timeouts

Timeouts are a great way to help us manage our emotions during difficult conversations with our partner. A timeout gives us a break that allows us to cool down and calm our emotions. Then once we’ve taken this break, we return from the timeout and finish whatever we were talking about. Timeouts prevent discussion from […]

6 Red Flags of Relationship Trouble & Gottman’s 4 Horsemen

Warning signs and red flags that a relationship may be in trouble often aren’t obvious at first. According to relationship expert John Gottman, certain behaviors and patterns can predict whether a relationship will last or head toward divorce. By recognizing these signs early, couples can take action to address issues before they become irreparable. Improve […]

Deescalate Conflict in Your Relationship With Repair Attempts

Sometimes discussions with our partners start off on the wrong foot. Other times things start to escalate and we start attacking or blaming each other. In order to communicate more effectively, we need to learn how to deescalate these sorts of conflicts. One of the best ways to do this is with what relationship expert […]

Improve Relationship Communication by Softening Your Startup

Regardless of how strong are relationships are, there will always be times when we have a complaint that we need to talk about. So it’s important that we’re able to have these discussions without sparking a conflict, or having things escalate into a fight or argument. The best best way to do this is to […]