Random Variable
Really Experienced
- Joined
- Mar 14, 2002
- Posts
- 174
When men are distant, it usually means they are mulling something over in their minds. He may not be ready to talk about it. By contrast, I think women find out what they think by talkikng about it, often in circles (and this drives men nuts--and not in a good way).--In other words, do the opposite of your instincts: instead of trying to draw him out, give him some space for a while.
One way to start this conversation can be >not< to ask "what's on your mind, honey?" But "what do you think are the best things about our marriage?" Establish positive common ground first and put the problems in perspective.
One way to get to the problems but avoid defensiveness is to ask, "in five years, what do you see this marriage looking like? What would be your ideal marriage?" Hey, I'm going to try that tomorrow!
I'll bet with the 10 month old, the old man is going thru, "Now I see that life will never be the same...obligations...trust...wife's time and attention split." This will take a few months to get over.
R.V.
One way to start this conversation can be >not< to ask "what's on your mind, honey?" But "what do you think are the best things about our marriage?" Establish positive common ground first and put the problems in perspective.
One way to get to the problems but avoid defensiveness is to ask, "in five years, what do you see this marriage looking like? What would be your ideal marriage?" Hey, I'm going to try that tomorrow!
I'll bet with the 10 month old, the old man is going thru, "Now I see that life will never be the same...obligations...trust...wife's time and attention split." This will take a few months to get over.
R.V.