When you have a problem with someone, do you speak up and tell them what's on your mind? Or do you wait for them to take the first step? If something is bothering you, Dr. Robin says it's up to you to bring it up because no one can read your mind. "No one has a crystal ball, no one knows how you feel, no one knows how they've injured you," she says.

Instead of allowing the problem to escalate, Dr. Robin says to consider that your friend, spouse or child may not know how you're really feeling. Take some time to reflect on the situation and then voice your concerns, she says.

"It's your job to share the things that are important to you with people you care about and then give them a fair opportunity to respond and to show up in a loving manner," she says. "You take the first step and then watch and see that there are a lot of steps that can follow if you're willing to be bold and bright first."