An Introduction

In my work, I sit with parents, couples, and individuals at very different stages of life. The situations vary, but over time I’ve noticed something consistent: what tends to be most helpful isn’t role-specific advice or analysis of the past, but skills that strengthen connection and understanding - of ourselves and of the people we’re in relationship with.

I find myself teaching the same skills again and again:
- to parents navigating power struggles,
- to partners stuck in familiar conflicts,
- to individuals trying to make sense of friendships past and present.

That’s where this weekly series comes from.

I’m calling it A Skill for Every Relationship. Each week, I’ll share one relational skill. Something that applies across parenting, partnerships, friendships, and even our relationship with ourselves.

The organizing idea is simple:

One skill.
Many relationships.
Repeated practice.

These aren’t resolutions or goals. They’re ways of understanding what’s happening between people, especially when things feel tense, confusing, or emotionally charged. You won’t find checklists or worksheets here, just things to notice, and skills to carry with you and try out.

If it fits, put it in your back pocket.
If it doesn’t, leave it behind.

If there’s a relationship context you’re especially interested in - parenting, partnerships, friendships -you’re welcome to reply and let me know.

The first skill follows.