Its that time of the year again—vacation time! We all know that vacations can be a great way to recharge ourselves…but they can also recharge our relationship. Regardless of budget I highly recommend that couples take at least one vacation a year together (and by together, I mean just the two of you—no extended family or with friends). Here is why vacations can be so helpful for couples: … [Read more...] about The Importance of Vacations for Couples
Couples Communication
5 Benefits of a “Business of Marriage” Weekly Meeting
A “Business of Marriage” meeting is an intentionally scheduled sit-down talk with your partner to review important topics such as finances, career challenges, childcare or pet care matters, upcoming visit or trips and even an emotional check-in. Ideally the meeting will happen on a weekly basis, is scheduled ahead of time, and can be as long as or as short … [Read more...] about 5 Benefits of a “Business of Marriage” Weekly Meeting
The Downside to Being a Giver
“If you are a giver and you have a big heart, to be truly happy in life, you must learn when to let go. Naturally, you’re going to care when you shouldn’t, you’re going to stay longer than you should, and you’re going to give when you have nothing. Know when to stop and let things be.” -Sylvester McNutt III While men can … [Read more...] about The Downside to Being a Giver
When Couples Grieve Differently
There are a range of normal and healthy responses to grieving a loss. However, couples sometimes experience distress when they perceive their partner’s way of grieving as different. Difference is actually okay. But it is often the stories couples tell themselves about this difference that causes an issue: i.e. “He/She just doesn’t care,” “He’s/She’s taking too long to get over this,” “He/She is … [Read more...] about When Couples Grieve Differently
How Your Family Impacts The Way You Fight With Your Partner
Fighting is normal and healthy in any relationship—and in fact it can help long-term relationships strengthen. However, there is a different between healthy and unhealthy fighting. And sometimes the way we communicated and fought with our families of origin can contribute to our fighting styles. Family of origin can be defined as the immediate family or others who lived in the household and had a … [Read more...] about How Your Family Impacts The Way You Fight With Your Partner