We all like to think that we respect our partners. However, think about it for a minute. How many times have you said something critical to your partner in the last week? How many times have you said this critical thing in front of other people? How about the other way around? How many times has your partner said something critical to you? How many times have you felt snapped at or disrespected?

It seems like a simple thing... respecting our partners. Easy, right? However, with the fast-paced life we all lead, sometimes we're in such a hurry to get something done that we don't take the time to show the respect to our partners that they deserve. Just because we're in a hurry is no reason to snap at our partner, or get exasperated, or comment that they "just don't get it." Perhaps with a little more patience they would get it. And I can tell you a little secret about this... with a little more patience I believe they're certainly going to feel better about you and the interactions you have.

So I guess the bottom line is, treat your partner as you'd like to be treated. Speak kindly. Give the benefit of the doubt. Show him or her that you not only care for them and love them, you also respect them. I believe that the more respect we show our partners, the more respect they will show us, and before you know it, you just may have a relationship of mutual respect and caring. Sounds too simple? Well, perhaps a little respect can go a long way. Give it a try and see!

David Schwartz, M.S., LMFT

David brings a wealth of life experience to his therapy practice. In addition to his therapy training, David has been a self-motivated entrepreneur for over 20 years, as well as working as a producer in the television industry.