Program: Real FamilyLife (90 Seconds)

 

 

Dennis Rainey: We all need at least one person to be perfectly honest with us.

Guest: My husband and I were having a conversation one day. He said, "You are used to telling people what to do. When you're at work, you're used to bossing people. And you can't do that at home." I didn't want to hear that. Because I thought I was right.[ Read Full Transcript ]

Dennis Rainey: None of us like to hear critical words, but we occasionally need to hear them. One person has said, "The best mirror is an old friend." We all need a friend who is willing to tell us the truth about what they see in us. My wife, Barbara, functions as that mirror for me, pointing out areas where I may need to change.

Do you know why I'm willing to listen to her? She has mastered the art of loving confrontation. She usually communicates a genuine concern for me. She doesn't nag or complain, and most of the time, she chooses the right time and setting to talk. She realizes I'm not in a mood to hear criticisms right as I walk in the house after a hard day's work, but I'm more likely to listen after some down time.

One final thought. You can help your mate by being honest with them. To offer criticism effectively, plan the best time and method of communication, and then speak. But speak out of love.

I'm Dennis Rainey, and that's Real FamilyLife.