They say laughter is the best medicine, and while it can’t solve all of your issues, it does have a way of creating a more harmonious dynamic within your marriage. Sure, laughing with your spouse and sharing a sense of humor is fun in its own right, but the ability to lean into humor at specific times can be the difference between conflict and connection. In fact, here are 4 times humor saves the day. Read More
When your spouse is struggling, they probably come to you, and vice versa. Having someone to go with your worries, problems, and emotions is one of the big perks of being married. The tricky part is knowing exactly what your spouse is looking for in the moment. Are they looking for moral support or emotional validation? Or are they looking for your perspective or a practical solution? If you’ve ever given the wrong thing at the wrong time, then you know it doesn’t feel great for either of you. What can you do to avoid this? Here are three simple steps to remember. Read More
Are you a truly supportive spouse? What does it mean to be supportive?
Is it validating your spouse’s thoughts and feelings? Is it encouraging them to pursue their dreams and cheering them on along the way? Is it being someone they can lean on, both physically and emotionally? Yes, it’s probably a bit of all these things at some point.
But here’s a bit of a reality check: It often isn’t about the big gestures and loud cheering that everyone else notices. It’s not just doling out uplifting comments and a pat on the back as you roll along doing your own thing. Being a truly supportive spouse can look and feel different than you might expect, and that can be difficult to navigate. If you’re struggling in this role, here are some mindset shifts to make. Read More
What role does accountability play in your marriage? Do you and your spouse hold yourselves and each other accountable? Ideally, the answer is yes. Accountability not only builds trust, it also helps you be the best version of yourself possible – and it does the same for your marriage. Here are four general areas in which your marriage benefits from accountability: Read More
You’ve got this whole marriage thing down. You feel close and connected to your spouse, you communicate well, and handle minor conflicts in healthy, productive ways. Who says the honeymoon has to end?
But out of nowhere, something happens that knocks you down several pegs. You wonder if you really have it all figured out after all. Your confidence is shaken, and you feel vulnerable. The reality is, everyone experiences this from time to time. Let’s explore a few common marriage moments that humble you, and why it’s actually a good thing. Read More
You’ve probably heard the slogan, “Love the skin you’re in.” It’s a positive mantra that encourages you to love and embrace yourself as you are – there’s no need to try to change yourself or strive for some unattainable ideal.
When it comes to where you’re at in life, does the same sentiment apply? Interestingly, it seems more acceptable to strive to be in a different place – achieving more, getting further ahead, taking the next step, or working toward an easier phase. The problem with this mindset is that you’re never really appreciating what’s in front of you here and now, and that’s why it’s important to embrace the season you’re in. Get started with these tips: Read More
Do you set personal goals at the start of a new year? You might have your own unique motivations, but there’s a reason it’s a common time for people start a journey towards some kind of self-improvement. January is both a literal and metaphorical fresh start, making it a perfect time to set off with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
Setting goals offers many universal benefits, and when you do it with your spouse – even more positive effects are unlocked. Curious what they are? Keep reading. Read More
After a couple weeks of indulging in the treats and trappings of the holidays, getting back to real life when it’s all over can be a very rude awakening. You had visions of bouncing into the new year motivated and refreshed, but in reality you’re dragging yourselves across the threshold, feeling moody and irritable. It’s no surprise when you take that out on each other – or fall into some negative relationship habits to boot. Needless to say, this isn’t the best way to start out the new year.
Of course, this outcome isn’t inevitable by any means. Starting off strong – with intention – can set a positive tone for the coming months. Wondering how to start now? Here are 4 tips to try: Read More
It’s that time of year again, when we find ourselves staring at the calendar in bewilderment. How have the month’s flown by so fast? Is the holiday season really around the corner already?!
While it’s a favorite time of year for many, it’s also a season that brings lots of baggage along with it. Difficult emotions and negative experiences can ride right alongside the positive ones. It can be a lot to navigate individually, let alone as a couple or family. Fortunately, you can avoid letting the holidays strain your marriage. Here’s how you and your spouse can be good teammates throughout the season: Read More
Have you faced adversity in your life that could have sent you spiraling down a negative path? A career setback, an illness or injury, or even just a run of bad luck has the potential to leave you discouraged, defeated, or harboring a pessimistic view on life. But that outcome is not predetermined. In fact, it can make you a stronger, more resilient person. Your marriage is no different. You and your spouse will go through things that can either strain – or strengthen – your marriage. Here are 3 examples: Read More
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