Schedule a weekly couple's meeting. All couples need to have a routine for helping each other stay focused or accountable for the health of their relationship.
- Make a commitment to meet weekly.
- Keep the meeting to less than one hour.
- Connect with your partner. Face each other, try holding hands, and make eye contact.
- Set an agenda for the meeting. Select one or two topics. Write notes if needed.
- Agree on who will start and begin by taking three minutes to say what’s on your mind.
Remember Love and KindnessBe mindful that you are talking to make things better- The speaker speaks while the listener listens without getting defensive or accusatory.
Try to put your reactions asideListen to understandAcknowledge whatever you can- The listener asks the speaker what they need out of this conversation. Talk about things that matter.
- Find something to say "yes" to. Discuss future ways to manage these feelings or the concern that is being addressed. Work towards compromise. Switch speaker listener roles and repeat the process.
- Plan some fun after each meeting.
Couples Counseling Today
