Strengthen your bond and deepen your connection with these meaningful commitments to your spouse
As we approach the New Year, it’s a perfect time for couples to reflect on their relationships and make meaningful commitments to one another. Author Jennifer K. Dean reminds us that a promise is only as valuable as the character of the person who makes it. In the context of marriage, this means that wedding vows are not just words spoken on a special day; they are solemn commitments that require integrity and dedication.
In addition to the vows exchanged on your wedding day, it’s essential for couples to make ongoing promises throughout their marriage. Richard Needham wisely noted, “You don’t marry one person; you marry three: the person you think they are, the person they are, and the person they are going to become.” As individuals evolve over time, making annual promises can help strengthen the bond between spouses.
7 promises to make this New Year’s Eve
What better time to recommit than on New Year’s Eve? Here are seven promises to consider exchanging with your partner as you step into a new year together.
- “I will release all of the things that I already said I’ve forgiven you for.”
- “I will check in more often to see if your relational needs and/or wants have changed.”
- “I will make our sex life (more of) a priority.”
- “I will shift the people, places, things, and ideas that hinder our bond.”
- “I will become (even more) solution-oriented rather than problem-oriented.”
- “I will be better at taking accountability.”
- “I will like you more, respect you better, and choose you daily.”
The power of forgiveness and letting go
Divorce rates hover around 50%, often due to a lack of commitment and poor communication. Holding onto grudges can create barriers in your relationship. As Ruth Graham Bell said, “A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers.” Make a commitment to truly let go of past grievances for the sake of your relationship and your mental health.
Checking in on evolving needs and wants
People change, and so do their needs. Regularly checking in with your spouse can prevent feelings of growing apart. Consider holding seasonal meetings to discuss each other’s evolving needs and expectations. This practice fosters open communication and helps both partners grow together.
Prioritizing intimacy and connection
Sex is a vital aspect of marriage that should not be neglected. Healthy marriages typically involve sexual intimacy at least once a week. Prioritizing your sex life can strengthen your bond and enhance overall relationship satisfaction. Remember, intimacy is not just a physical act; it’s an emotional connection that requires attention and effort.
Surrounding yourselves with support
Surrounding yourselves with supportive individuals and environments is crucial for a healthy marriage. If certain influences are detrimental to your relationship, it may be time to reevaluate those connections. Listen to your spouse’s concerns about external factors that may be affecting your bond.
Focusing on solutions, not problems
Focusing on solutions instead of problems can transform your relationship dynamics. Being solution-oriented means actively seeking ways to improve your marriage rather than dwelling on what’s wrong. This mindset fosters collaboration and strengthens your partnership.
Embracing accountability and growth
Accountability is essential in a marriage. Being open to feedback and willing to grow can help both partners mature individually and as a couple. Embrace the idea that your spouse is there to help you see areas for improvement, and be willing to make necessary changes.
Choosing love and respect daily
Love is a choice that requires daily commitment. Make a conscious effort to find things you like about your spouse and express respect for them. This can help rekindle the friendship aspect of your relationship, which is foundational for lasting love.
Conclusion
As you prepare to enter a new year, consider these seven promises as a way to strengthen your marriage. Reflect on the importance of integrity in your commitments and the value of ongoing communication. Here’s to a new year filled with love, growth, and deeper connections!
