144: Ask David--Relationships, Relationships, Relationships!

My wife claims that I never listen! How can I possibly agree with her?  My wife left me! How can I correct the distortions in her criticisms? How can you deal with people who constantly wallow in self-pity? And more! Hi podcast fans, Today we've got some terrific Five Secrets questions that you have submitted. Mike #1: I love your Five Secrets of Effective Communication. Why does secret #4, "I Feel" Statements, not include Thought Empathy? Mike #2: I have seen communication models that include expressing and listening for needs. Aren't needs and wants important and important to express? Al: How can I help my wife recognize her many cognitive distortions, like All-or-Nothing Thinking? It seems hopeless! Guy: If a loved one says, "You never listen," how could I possibly find the truth in this statement? How could you genuinely agree with an All-or-Nothing statement such as, "You never …."? Both Sonja and Eileen asked: How can you deal with someone who constantly wallows in self-pity and plays the role of victim. It's exhausting! Thanks for tuning in, and keep the great questions coming! David and Rhonda