Tag: validate

Many couples (particularly males) have come to view Valentine's Day as a tedious obligation: to buy chocolates or flowers, to go out for a "romantic" dinner, or to trudge off to the local drug store in search of a silly or syrupy card.

Having coached thousands of couples and trained thousands of couples' counselors worldwide, I'd like to offer you a new perspective: Valentine's Day is a once-a-year opportunity to try out new behaviors that can strengthen your relationship.

We all want to be part of a relationship, and the main reason is the desire to feel connected. You might be surprised to learn that, in fact, this is a basic biological requirement because some of you will only experience it during times of need—when you want to be understood.

If your partner is not able to provide this connection for you, no doubt you will feel quite disappointed and/or frustrated. Likely, you will also experience a sense of being isolated.