I still struggle to make that validating statement at the right moment. Between the stress of a strained conversation and natural timing I miss many opportunities. What I am trying to do is make validation a habit. When I speak with kids or anyone I try to respond in a validating manner. This is a effective way to train myself since I never used to respond like that. I think that the world would be a better place if we all did a little more validating.
Accuray posted an important thought. Whatever your wife's thinking is you are here, on this path. The most effective course of action is to rediscover yourself. Assess yourself and make the necessary improvements. Find some things that interest you and explore them. Do something that makes your eyes light up when you talk about it. I like metal art so I am taking a welding class. After a hard day of work I am still driven to go to that class. Find something you WANT to do and explore it, even if it's under water basket weaving.
Your short term goals are to create a PMA, validate when possible and find an activity that your passionate about. Be strong
