There are many goals we set at the beginning of a new year. While we may think these are only around our careers, parenting, or self-care, we may also need to consider our relationships. After all, our relationships, whether it’s friendships, romantic or professional relationships, take up most of our time and energy, and also reward us with the best feelings over time.
Here are some relationship goals you can set for yourself this year:
Choose to look at the positive
There are many things about relationships, whether personal or professional, that are not always as we would like them to be. However, choosing to look at the positive and those traits and qualities we appreciate in our partners, friends, and associates, can make all the difference this year.
Do something new every month
Nothing like shaking up the routine to feel the energy of a healthy and vibrant relationship all over again. Choose to do something new at least every month. Whether it’s visiting a new museum, trying a new restaurant, or even just sharing a new book, shake things up every month.
Have date night/day/anytime
As in, spend some quality time on a regular basis. It could be stepping out for coffee early in the morning, or sharing a romantic dinner, or just visiting the library together, as long you can fit in some precious quality time in your relationship.
Find ways to give back
Being of service together is one of the very unique ways you can reinforce the bond in your relationship. Volunteer at a soup kitchen together, mentor a group of underprivileged kids, or pool funds for a cause you believe in, for example. Whatever way you choose to share your resources, time and energy in together, use it as fuel to reinforce your relationship.
Show appreciation
It’s not enough to feel appreciation for your partner or friend. Learning to show it in a way that can touch them can also make the difference between a stagnant relationship and a thriving one. It could be as simple as making an handmade thank-you card, or sending a sweet Post-It note on your way to work. Just show that you care.
Support your partner’s goals
We all have goals that we’re after in life. Knowing that your partner or friend supports you in these can actually take the relationship to a higher, more successful level. Show interest in your partner’s dreams and pursuits, and help him/her in whatever way you can to reach these goals. It may just mean keeping the kids on weekends while they study, or listening to them vent on one or two occasions. As long as the mutual support is there.
Have fun together
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun together. At the end of the day, it’s those small (or big) moments of joy and unbridled happiness that we remember the most. So let loose and go watch that hilarious movie, or get tickets for the water park, whatever brings a smile (or a hearty laugh) to your face, together.
What are your relationship goals for the year? Please share with us in the comments.
Bio: Solange Lopes is an author, blogger and CPA. She writes about career and lifestyle topics for women at work in her blog The Corporate Sister (www.thecorporatesister.com). She’s also the author of Girl, Take Back Your Career: 7 Steps to Reclaiming Your Power at Work.
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