New Year’s is a great time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. As couples, it can be especially beneficial to take some time to think about your relationship and make resolutions that will help you grow and strengthen your bond. Whether you’re looking for ways to improve communication, rekindle the “spark” you once had, or tackle more challenging issues, here are a few New Year’s resolutions for couples to consider.
7 Relationship Goals For The New Year
- Spend More Quality Time Together
- Talk More
- Fight Clean
- Be More Forgiving
- Show Appreciation For Each Other
- Be Intimate Often
- Consider Couples’ Counseling
1. Make Quality Time Together a Priority
Any long-term partnership can potentially lead to feelings of boredom or “being in a rut,” so it’s essential to put in the effort to try new things together. Consider taking turns planning weekly dates or outings to reaffirm the feelings you once had when you first started dating. These date nights don’t have to be extravagant or expensive. The key is to show each other that you’re still putting in the time and effort to make each other happy.
2. Engage In More Conversations
Communication is key in any relationship, and it’s often the cause of many problems. Whether you have disagreements or want to hear more about each other’s days, open and honest communication is essential for maintaining a lasting partnership. Try setting aside some time every week to sit down and talk with one another without any distractions like cell phones or the TV.
3. Fight Clean
Arguments are a normal part of any relationship, but it’s important not to let minor disagreements fester or turn into larger issues. Try developing some simple ground rules for handling conflict, such as never speaking harshly or shouting, refraining from criticism, and always focusing on the issue at hand. Additionally, make a conscious effort to listen and empathize with the emotions behind each others’ words. This will help ensure that everyone feels heard and understood, no matter the topic of the argument.
4. Try To Be More Forgiving
Everyone makes mistakes, so try your best to let go of the little things instead of holding grudges against each other. Instead of allowing resentment to build over time, focus on taking a deep breath, respectfully communicating your feelings to your partner, and trying to see things from their perspective. You should also avoid bringing up past transgressions during unrelated arguments, as this can negatively affect your relationship.
5. Be Appreciative Of Each Other
Say “thank you” and “I love you” often, and express your appreciation for how your partner supports and loves you. Even if you feel that these sentiments are trivial or obvious, showing your partner that they play a key role in your life is crucial. This can be as simple as sending a text message during the day, leaving little notes for each other, making a small romantic gesture at the end of the week, or any other idea that aligns with each other’s love languages.
6. Be Intimate Often
Physical affection is essential for any intimate partnership, as most couples consider it to be one of the key factors that distinguish a romantic bond from a platonic friendship. You and your partner should engage in whatever forms of intimacy work for you, whether that includes cuddling, kissing, hand-holding, or more risqué forms of physical intimacy.
7. Take Advantage Of Couples Counseling
If you feel like your relationship is struggling and are unsure how to address the issues, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can also help you safely and productively work through any lingering feelings of frustration or resentment without jeopardizing your relationship. Ultimately, couples therapy aims to help you build a stronger and more fulfilling partnership that lasts well into the future.
Marriage Counseling In Southern California
Dr. Taji Huang is an experienced clinical psychologist and relationship therapist based in Glendale. She can offer support, guidance, and strategies for dealing with common problems many couples face throughout their partnership. Contact her office today to schedule your first session.