OK, well perhaps not ALL the time, but sometimes the ability to know what our significant other is REALLY thinking would be truly beneficial.

All couples find communication difficult at least some of the time. And at least some of the breakdown is in part because we don’t always say exactly what we mean. Now, there are very “good” reasons for this lack of clarity in a marriage - perhaps you don’t want to hurt the other person’s feelings, or you unclear/undecided on the issue yourself, or you have rushed what you meant to say for some external reason (job, kids, whatever) or maybe you are just covering your own ass. Regardless, we certainly understand that it DOES happen and every person involved in a significant relationship will have to spend a certain amount of time decoding messages taking into account the situation, how well we know the other person, probably other factors as well.

Of course, clear and open communication (getting your message across in a kind way with love at the heart of it) is the ideal and that is what we advocate and strive for. But what about this mind reading thing? Wouldn’t it be great to get some insight with a super power?

We realize that members of each gender do not come from a cookie cutter and sweeping generalizations are not going to apply, however, for women (single, living together, married…) who want to know more about what is going on in the minds of men check out these pages from ivillage.com for responses from a variety of guys to many different questions. The little snippets found on this site will definitely provide an interesting look at what The Boys are really thinking. (Note: some of the questions on this site are related to single women and the topic of dating, but it is still illuminating…)

Now for the fellas (we KNOW you find women rather cryptic sometimes..OK, much of the time!) , I haven’t found a site that is as thorough in its variety of responses (the video on ivillage is cool) but for a quick and informative tutorial check out pleasebemine.com .

These sites won’t help you actually read your sweetie’s mind, but they may provide some insight. One idea might be to check out these sites WITH your partner and discuss them, that way you will get an even deeper understanding of who they are and where they are coming from.

Finally, if all else fails and you REALLY need you know what’s going on inside your your lover’s noggin, HAVE A CONVERSATION. Talk to them openly and approach them with love and understanding. It’s not always easy. In fact sometimes is really rather hard, but do it. You, your partner and your relationship are all worth it.

Happy Couples, Happy Planet!