25-10 - Flipbook - Page 59
October 2025
leg two days after your spouse9s shoulder surgery, and now you9re both laid
up. Instead of taking your negative emotions (frustration, anger, stress) out
on each other, it can be helpful to have something else to take the brunt of
it 3 in this case the external situation. Unify behind how ridiculous your luck is,
and help each other see the positive or humorous side of things. Maybe it9s
a great excuse to enjoy couch potato time together and binge the shows
you9ve had on your list, or being forced to slow down is actually just what
you both need. Be a source of support and comfort for each other as you
bond over the less-than-ideal situation.
2. You and your spouse vs. the kids
Okay, so you9re not really going against your children, so to speak. However,
there are times as parents when remembering you9re on the same team as
your spouse can make all the difference. Maybe your toddler is throwing a
tantrum in public at the very same time your older child knocks over a gigantic product display. Or you9re both spent after an incredibly long day,
making the bedtime routine feel like the last leg of a marathon. Instead of
taking frustration, fatigue, and general feelings of overwhelm out on each
other, try channeling it into being a good teammate to your spouse. Hype
each other up and give each other the boost you both need to get through
the parenting challenge.
3. You and your spouse vs. an imaginary third party
You9ve maybe seen this idea come across your social media feed. Instead
of nagging each other about those mundane yet irritating things they do (or
don9t do), come up with a fake character that you blame instead. Maybe
it9s Chaz the Freeloading Roommate who never refills the Brita pitcher and
forgets to fill the car up with gas. Or the mysterious Box Monster who leaves
a pile of empty boxes in the garage instead of in the recycling bin. You or
your spouse might joke,
