Trying to better express yourself

Kris’ Take: I like to think that I’m a pretty sensitive guy, so it was to my surprise when I found out that I may not express how I feel as well as I thought. Recently there was a medical emergency, and it was a pretty darn important moment in the involved parties’ lives. When it comes to medical emergencies I always thought that it wasn’t a good idea to be openly worried. I thought that you are supposed to be as positive as possible, and apparently I was wrong. I didn’t show that I was really worried, and this came off as I didn’t care. That couldn’t be further from the truth. So now I need to figure out what the best way to respond in a medical emergency is. I thought it was my job to be the strong positive person… I get surprises everyday.

Laura’s Take: I can see where both sides would come from. I think there must be a good even ground, where you are still positive about the situation while also letting them know how much they mean to you. Pillars are definitely good, but it’s nice to see that big burly man turn into a vulnerable pile of mush over the love of his life.

What do you want for Christmas?

Laura’s Take: Don’t know what to get your lovely wife or girlfriend for Christmas? Jewelry is always a hit, which unfortunately makes it very predictable. Think, what has she mentioned earlier in the year? Buying something she wanted a while ago, is always a great way to show you listen to her and you care enough to remember. Can’t think of anything? Think about what things she likes to do, such as baking, painting, or gardening and buy her something she could use for such. Still perplexed? Just ask her mom. Mother knows best!

By the way, If she specifically says she wants something, don’t be daring and buy her something else. Women know what they want, they can spend hours shopping to find that perfect dress, necklace, or watch. So if she says, I want this dress, don’t try buying a different one. No, the element of surprise isn’t there, but she’ll be much happier getting what she really wants. She knows what she wants, and it’s a black and teal sequin cowl neck cocktail dress!

 Kris’ Take:  Wow!  I better read carefully here, I hope there’s nothing I’m forgetting :-/  But I must agree, it’s kind of obvious, once the princess puts her foot down, it’s best to abide.  But I must also say the same thing for men.  We will drop hints constantly, just short of holding up signs neon signs.  Men like lots of things such as: TVs, Video Games, Some like jewelry, lots of practical things like tools, and for those married couples I’ve never heard of guys complaining about Lingerie, but not for the guy…  Short of all of those ideas each man is unique, they have hobbies, buy something that will enhance that for them.

When push comes to shove, if someone absolutely wants something, I think it’s better to get that.  You can always save the element of surprise for a different day.  It never hurts to bring home a surprise boquet of flowers when she’s had a bad day.

Date Tip: Talking Too Much

Kris’ Take: Okay, don’t give her the silent treatment, but she doesn’t need your biography either. Save some information for another date. We know that you want to tell her all of the good deeds you’ve done, but that will just make you sound egotistical. Let her talk, let her explain, and remember, pay attention. Don’t just nod and smile but be thinking about sports, actually listen and input your comments throughout to demonstrate you’re listening. Listening is one of the most important qualities that women want in men. And guess what, very few offer it, talk about a competitive advantage! And it’s so easy to do!

Also, if there is something you don’t understand, like her being the international southwest regional branch manager of operations, ask her what that means. People love being put in the hot seat and educating. It shows that you’re interested, and it allows her to have the spotlight. People love attention, that’s why the two of you are on a date in the first place.