Start the New Year Strong
Give Your Relationship a Tune-Up with the Gottman Assessment
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and set intentions for the months ahead. While many people focus on personal resolutions—like improving fitness, finances, or career goals—it’s just as important to check in on your relationship. Your partnership is a cornerstone of your well-being, and investing in it can lead to greater happiness, connection, and resilience in the year ahead.
One of the best ways to assess and strengthen your relationship is through a relationship "tune-up" with the Gottman Relationship Checkup. This scientifically-backed tool provides valuable insights into the health of your partnership and actionable steps to help you grow together.
Why Start the Year with a Relationship Check-In?
Just like a car needs regular maintenance to keep running smoothly, relationships benefit from intentional care and attention. Here’s why the beginning of the year is an ideal time to check in with your partner:
1. New Year, Fresh Perspective
The start of the year feels like a natural time to take stock of where you are and where you want to go. Reflecting on your relationship’s strengths and areas for improvement can set the stage for meaningful growth and connection throughout the year.
2. Preventative Maintenance
You don’t have to wait for major conflicts or issues to arise before seeking support. A relationship tune-up allows you to address small concerns before they become bigger problems, keeping your connection strong and resilient.
3. Reaffirm Your Commitment
Taking the time to focus on your relationship sends a powerful message to your partner: "I value us, and I’m committed to making our relationship the best it can be."
4. Build on What’s Working
A relationship check-in isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s also about celebrating your strengths and building on what’s already working well. Identifying the positives can reinforce the bond you share and give you a solid foundation for tackling challenges together.
What Is the Gottman Relationship Checkup?
The Gottman Relationship Checkup is a research-based assessment developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, leading experts in the field of relationships. It’s designed to provide a comprehensive overview of your relationship’s health, highlighting both strengths and areas for growth.
How It Works:
Online Questionnaire: Both partners complete an in-depth online questionnaire that covers key aspects of the relationship, including communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, trust, and shared goals.
Personalized Feedback: The results are analyzed by a trained therapist who provides personalized feedback tailored to your relationship.
Actionable Plan: You’ll receive a clear, actionable plan to address areas of improvement and enhance your connection.
The Gottman Relationship Checkup is based on decades of research and proven strategies, making it a trusted tool for couples who want to strengthen their relationship.
What a Relationship "Tune-Up" Looks Like
A relationship tune-up with the Gottman Assessment is not about pointing fingers or assigning blame—it’s about creating a supportive environment where both partners can grow together. Here’s what to expect:
1. Identify Strengths
The assessment highlights what you’re doing well as a couple, giving you the chance to celebrate your successes and build on your strengths.
2. Pinpoint Areas for Growth
The assessment also identifies areas where you may be struggling, such as communication, managing conflict, or maintaining intimacy. This clarity helps you focus your efforts on the areas that matter most.
3. Develop Skills and Strategies
Based on your results, your therapist will guide you through research-backed tools and techniques to address challenges and enhance your relationship.
4. Set Goals Together
A relationship tune-up is an opportunity to set shared goals for the year ahead, whether it’s improving communication, spending more quality time together, or building a stronger foundation of trust.
Benefits of Starting the Year with the Gottman Assessment
Couples who start the year with a relationship check-in often report feeling more connected, aligned, and confident in their partnership. Here’s why:
Improved Communication: Gain tools to express your feelings and needs more effectively, reducing misunderstandings and arguments.
Deeper Intimacy: Strengthen emotional and physical intimacy by addressing barriers and prioritizing connection.
Conflict Resolution Skills: Learn how to navigate disagreements in a constructive way, turning conflicts into opportunities for growth.
Renewed Commitment: Reaffirm your love and dedication to each other, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to invest in your relationship this new year, here’s how to begin:
Schedule a Session: Reach out to a trained couples therapist who offers the Gottman Relationship Checkup. I’d be honored to guide you through the process and help you gain valuable insights into your relationship.
Complete the Assessment: You and your partner will complete the online questionnaire at your own pace.
Review Your Results: In your follow-up session, we’ll review the findings together, celebrate your strengths, and create a personalized plan for growth.
Take Action: Use the insights and strategies from your tune-up to nurture your relationship throughout the year.
The start of a new year is a powerful opportunity to invest in your relationship and set the stage for a year filled with connection, growth, and love. Whether your relationship feels strong or you’ve been facing challenges, a tune-up with the Gottman Relationship Checkup can provide the clarity and tools you need to move forward together.
If you’re ready to make 2024 a year of connection and growth in your relationship, I invite you to reach out. Let’s work together to strengthen your bond and help you create a partnership that thrives—not just in January but all year long.
As a couples therapist based in Lakeland, Florida, I offer personalized counseling services to help couples strengthen their relationships. If you feel that professional help could benefit your relationship, don’t hesitate to reach out! If you're looking for something more personalized, I invite you to contact me for a consultation or book a session. Together, we can work towards building a more intentional and fulfilling relationship.
Written By: Crystin Nichols MS, RMFTI
