It’s week two of the New Year. Research shows that 25% of people who have made a “New Year’s Resolution” have already abandoned their plans by the end of the first week and around 30% will have slacked by the end of the second week. An article I read this week stated that this is often because many New Year’s Resolutions are more of “wishes”, and these “wishes” lack an actual PLAN. People get stuck not because they don’t want to make changes or progress; but because they lack the skill, training, and knowledge of how to turn these wishes into GOALS with a PLAN.

Let’s say that your resolution this year was to be happier and more connected in your intimate relationship with your partner. The intent behind your resolution is honorable. Perhaps you’ve grabbed a book on relationships, or begun to talk to friends about what works for them. So how do you take what you want and wish to change into your relationship and create a successful game plan for your
marriage?

Research shows that at the heart of a healthy relationship are key elements such as respect, trust, and healthy communication. Couples need to take time for each other, and make one another their top priority. Maybe this means scheduling in a date night at least once or twice a month. Maybe this means that you take 15 minutes for each other throughout the day where you can have uninterrupted
conversation. Maybe this looks like providing intentional acts of service for each other. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you put it into a plan of action with measurable steps that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time Oriented. Check in with yourself and your spouse on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis.

And if you would like help customizing a PLAN for your relationship goals and wishes to come true, feel free to contact one of our relationship experts to get help creating a customized plan for you.