We’ve all heard the cliché that women are from Venus and men are from Mars—a metaphor often used to illustrate how different the sexes are from each other. This also rings true when it comes to communication styles. What works for women won’t necessarily work for men, especially when it comes to understanding the meanings behind the words. If he’s not doing what you want him to do, maybe it’s time to attack the situation differently.

I’ve heard lots of lady friends complain that the men in their lives simply do not listen, especially if it is something guys don’t really want to do—like cleaning the house or fixing his desk. All the complaining, name-calling, stress, and anger never helps. In the slide show below, I've listed a few things you might want to keep in mind the next time you want your man to stop shutting down and start doing things.

For more relationship tips, check out these links:

• Getting Your Point Across: 5 Tips to Avoid Miscommunication
• Relationships 101: How to Communicate Effectively as a Couple
• Speak Up: 5 Tips to Better Communication with Your Husband
• Clashing Spouses: 4 Win-Win Negotiation Strategies for You and Your Husband

(Photo from He's Just Not That into You courtesy of New Line Cinema)