[drags]

Maybe I'm naive, but the idea of manipulating a partner into doing what one wants really rubs me the wrong way.

Wanting things is a legitimate choice, and it seems unfair to deprive someone of that choice through trickery.

[BSousa]

Except for storing things away from her to see if she really needs them, none of the other points come close to trickery.

All the other things I talk to her, explain. Why buy new clothes every 2 months (seriously, the damn baby just keeps growing) if we can have a lot of hand-me-downs? She loves her kindle and iPad. The toys issue is a real concern and made it her concern as well. I started drinking a lot less because it was a concern for her.

I don't think it is manipulation. I hate clutter, she knows it, I try to find solutions where both are ok with it. I mentioned sometimes I get my way, sometimes she gets her way. I can't say for others, but I never found anyone that was 100 percent match in everything I like and believe. I mention it is a partnership. I hate going on holidays, hate it, but I go to make her happy. Of course I expect she does a few things to make me happy. If not (both sides), why the hell are we together? Just to save on rent?

Edit: Heck, if you read the top post, you even see I'm going back to work because I want her to have things she really wants.

[return0]

There is manipulation in the opposite direction here too.