Most couples believe they communicate fairly well. 

After all, they talk every day. They discuss schedules, responsibilities, decisions, and concerns. Conversation is a regular part of life together. 

Yet many of the arguments couples experience are not caused by disagreement alone. More often, they arise from something deeper: one or both partners feeling misunderstood. 

When people feel unheard, even small conversations can become frustrating. 

In many cases the missing skill is not speaking more clearly. It is learning how to listen well. 

Listening may sound simple, but healthy listening in marriage is one of the most important—and least practiced—communication skills couples can develop. 

Parenting is hard. Full stop! As a mom of five, I’ve done a lot of things well over the years—and made plenty of mistakes too. One of the hardest areas to navigate is parenting during conflict. Anger, frustration, exhaustion, and a dozen other emotions can bring out the worst in any of us. Let’s look at three common mistakes parents make in conflict—and some practical ways to fix them.​