In this special episode of Better Relationships: Better Work, I am joined by my wife Angie. Together, we discuss what lessons we’ve learned through 20 years of marriage about making a relationship work.

We explore how mutual respect and trust are the foundation of the relationship and the vital role of listening has played in laying that foundation. We also discuss what it means to fully accept someone, always assuming positive intentions from the other person. And, as a bonus, Angie shares what she’s learned about relationships through her career in politics, needing to build connection with those who may have very different beliefs and values.

Key lessons highlighted in our conversation include:

👉 Fostering trust through mutual respect and prioritizing relationships over winning arguments.

👉 Building a foundation of effective communication and understanding early on to align on significant issues.

👉 Embracing active listening and having open conversations about difficult topics without judgment.

👉 Learning not to internalize personal attacks, attributing them to others' issues rather than your own.

👉 Trusting your instincts and valuing the power of compassion.

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“See a need, fill a need” has been Angie Lauritsen’s motto for decades and that is how she leads in her community. Her leadership has included serving on the Gretna City Council, running for state legislature, founding Gretna Hometown Heros, and being a fierce advocate for survivors and children. Angie is the State Director for Nebraska For Us, a non-profit focused on federal economic policy that affects hardworking Nebraskans.

Connect with Angie:

X: https://x.com/AngieLauritsen

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-lauritsen-23475752/

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Get access to the Relationship Reflection Exercise here: https://forms.gle/tSt34KguHL6iFHGH6

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Episode sponsor:

Inspiring Workplaces

Join the free global community at https://www.inspiring-workplaces.com/

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Jason Lauritsen is a dynamic keynote speaker and true thought leader in the world of work and employee engagement. He is dedicated to revolutionizing the way we Lead With Relationship™. He fearlessly challenges traditional norms to reshape the employee experience by consistently placing authentic human connection at the heart of leadership. Jason is the author of two books, Unlocking High Performance and Social Gravity.

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Download the 18 Great Questions for Check-In Conversations cheat sheet here: https://www.checkintothrive.com/18-great-questions

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Follow and connect with me:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasonlauritsen

www.JasonLauritsen.com