The more you try to get somebody to change, the harder they will fight change and the more they will resist you. The paradox is that if you accept the fact that you CAN’T change someone and actually focus on changing yourself and your thoughts, the other person will change at the exact moment that you change.
This is why YOU have the ability to strengthen and improve your marriage without even getting your spouse involved. It’s true–you can change yourself and your spouse will likely follow suit. There’s another phenomenon that is often called ‘karma’ meaning that you get back what you give. Try it–if you want more respect and appreciation, tell your loved ones why you respect them and admire them. When you do this without expecting anything in return truly amazing things may happen!