A relationship checkup
A RELATIONSHIP CHECK-UP
By Lisa Keane | MAMFC, LPC-S, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST SUPERVISOR, NCC
Question: I have been married for several years now. I know Valentine’s Day has come and gone, but I still want to know how we could spice up the romantic side of our relationship every day?
Great question! I have a wonderful answer for you, too! As a counselor who has the wonderful opportunity to provide premarital counseling to couples who are so in love, I have developed a rule of thumb that Valentine's Day is more than just a greeting card holiday. Valentine's Day, or any day around this time of year, is also a good time to have a couple check up.
We all go to doctors, dentists, and eye doctors to make sure we are in good physical health, but what are you doing to make sure your relationship is in good health? This time of year is great to check in with your spouse and check up on your relationship. Even if you feel like you have a healthy marriage relationship, it is important to check in with your spouse. Sometimes hidden issues can be lurking which can cause a major disruption.
Even if there are no hidden issues, reflecting on your relationship strength can be rejuvenating too. For a great couple check up, take this quick survey from Prepare-Enrich. This assessment will allow you to see your relationship's strengths and areas of growth for you and your spouse. I would even recommend the book Couple Checkup Book by David H. Olson, Amy K. Olson-Sigg, Peter J. Larson. This a great book to help you and your spouse stay on the right track.
Make this February a little different this year. Let the season be about strengthening your marriage and celebrating the strengths that are already there. You can still have your roses, chocolates and nice dinner, but make sure you go a little further and give your relationship a good check up.
This article was originally posted on our Ask Anne column.