The place to begin building any relationship is inside ourselves, inside our circle of influence, our own character.
Stephen CoveyAs a principle-centered person you try to stand apart from the emotion of the situation and from other factors that would act on you, and evaluate the options. Looking at the balanced whole-the work needs, the family needs, the other needs that may be involved, and the possible implications of the various alternatives - you'll try to come up with the best solution taking all factors into consideration. We are limited but we can push back the borders of our limitations.
Stephen CoveyPerhaps the most important vision of all is develop a sense of self, a sense of your own destiny, a sense of unique mission and role in life.
Stephen CoveyInevitably, anytime we are too vulnerable we feel the need to protect ourselves from further wounds. So we resort to sarcasm, cutting humor, criticism - anything that will keep from exposing the tenderness within. Each partner tends to wait on the initiative of the other for love, only to be disappointed but also confirmed as to the rightness of the accusations made.
Stephen Covey