Relationship Rules You Don't Have to Follow
These adages have been the foundation for countless successful wedding toasts—too bad they don't serve the happy couple as well. Here, some pearls of wisdom that have lost their shine.
By Valerie Ross
Breakable Rule #2: Never go to bed angry.
Half a dozen psychologists and therapists said they'd toss out this rule. Some problems simply can't be fixed in the 120 minutes between tucking in the kids and turning in yourselves. Sleeping on an argument can help both parties come at it refreshed later on—which isn't to say that you should lie in bed mentally gathering ammunition for your next attack. Psychotherapist Linda Young suggests concentrating on one of the best days you and your partner have spent together while you're falling asleep. If you're too angry for that, focus on any pleasant thought (as long as it's not about that old boyfriend from college).
Published 03/12/2013
