We’ll say it straight up: There’s no good reason in the world to hang onto these habits. They aren’t helping.
1. Nagging, nagging, nagging. We know about the squeaky wheel, but complaining loud and long gets you only short-term gains and builds up powerful discontent on your spouse’s side.
2. Blaming, criticizing, and name-calling. These tactics belittle the person you promised to love, honor, and cherish; let you play angel to his or her devil; and don’t address the responsibility you both share for your marital happiness.
3. Bullying, rudeness, and selfishness. These …