10 Relationship Resolutions
Strengthen Your Bond This Year
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on your relationship and set intentions to grow closer as a couple. While individual goals like improving health or finances often take center stage, relationship resolutions are equally important. A thriving relationship requires intention, effort, and shared commitment. Here are 10 resolutions to help you strengthen your bond this year:
1. Prioritize Quality Time
In today’s busy world, it’s easy for quality time to get lost in the shuffle. Set aside regular, distraction-free time for each other—whether it’s a weekly date night, a morning coffee ritual, or simply a nightly chat before bed.
2. Practice Active Listening
Make an effort to truly listen to your partner. This means putting away distractions, maintaining eye contact, and reflecting back what you hear. Active listening fosters connection and helps your partner feel understood.
3. Express Gratitude Daily
Take time every day to express appreciation for your partner. Whether it’s thanking them for something small or acknowledging their role in your life, gratitude strengthens the emotional connection.
4. Communicate Your Needs Openly
Resolve to speak up about your feelings and needs rather than expecting your partner to read your mind. Open communication prevents misunderstandings and fosters deeper intimacy.
5. Commit to Conflict Resolution
Disagreements are inevitable, but how you handle them matters. This year, focus on resolving conflicts respectfully by staying calm, avoiding blame, and using "I" statements to express your feelings.
6. Rediscover Physical Intimacy
Physical affection is a powerful way to stay connected. Whether it’s through regular hugs, holding hands, or reigniting your sex life, prioritize physical closeness to nurture your bond.
7. Dream Together
Set shared goals and dreams for the year ahead. Whether it’s planning a vacation, saving for a big purchase, or taking a class together, dreaming as a team creates excitement and alignment.
8. Revisit Your Love Languages
Do you know how your partner prefers to give and receive love? Revisit the five love languages—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch—and find ways to incorporate them into your daily life.
9. Invest in Personal Growth
A healthy relationship is built on two individuals who are committed to their own growth. Support each other’s goals, and celebrate individual achievements as part of your shared journey.
10. Seek Support When Needed
No relationship is perfect, and seeking help when challenges arise is a sign of strength. Whether through books, workshops, or couples therapy, commit to addressing issues constructively and proactively.
Your relationship is one of the most valuable parts of your life, and nurturing it is worth every effort. By setting these resolutions and working on them together, you can create a year filled with connection, love, and growth.
Which resolution resonates most with you? Share your thoughts and start the conversation with your partner today!
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
