Identify three areas where you are least likely to want advice. These may include doing something you do routinely (sweep the porch), something you do for enjoyment (crossword puzzle), something you do in your own style (parallel park) and so forth. You get the idea. Note 2 or 3 of these for you.
1._______________________________________________________________ 2._______________________________________________________________ 3._______________________________________________________________
When are you most likely to want advice? What are the areas where you welcome your partner’s input and suggestions? Maybe it’s on the thing she does better than you. Note those here.
1._______________________________________________________________ 2._______________________________________________________________ 3._______________________________________________________________
Next, we want to challenge you to do something a bit tougher. Focus on your own advice giving. When are you most likely to give advice to your partner? Maybe you give advice on something predictable (how to grill a hamburger), something she does that frustrates you (how not to loose the car keys), or something you do without thinking (how to drive). Identify 2 or 3 of these specific situations when you tend to be most prone to giving your partner advice.
1.__________________________________________________________ 2.__________________________________________________________ 3.__________________________________________________________
Now, in a single sentence, write out why you think you give your partner advice. In other words, what motivates you to do so?
The point of this exercise is to help each of you empathize with your advice-giving. The more you understand where each of you is coming from on giving advice, the more grace you will have to receive it when it comes your way and curb it when you are likely to dole it out.
