How can you make Valentine’s Day more meaningful than just another Hallmark holiday?
While it’s always fun to exchange cards and share the typical chocolate, gift or romantic dinner, we believe the day can be used more consciously than that. We propose using Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to assess the temperature of your love relationship.
You can do this assessment any time throughout the day so it doesn’t interfere with your traditional celebration. Here are a few topics that couples can explore together:
Communication
- Is your partner available and interested in what you have to say?
- How much do you disclose to each other about everyday events?
- Is there an issue that you avoid in discussions?
- How do you deal with conflict resolution?
- How do you argue?
- Are you harboring any resentment that needs to be expressed?
- How could your partner facilitate more open dialogue?
Intimacy
- Are you satisfied with the level of intimacy in your relationship?
- Do you share enough physical affection?
- Are you happy with the sexual relationship?
- Do you appreciate each other and take the time to share compliments?
- Do you spend enough time together to enhance your sense of intimacy?
Finances
- How well are you handling individual and shared finances?
- Do you communicate about any potential financial strains in the relationship?
- Do you talk openly about credit card bills, budgets, borrowing and saving? Are you on the same page about managing your financial life together?
Family Relationships
- How is your relationship with other members of the family?
- Are your children getting sufficient attention from both of you?
- Are parents, in-laws and other relatives bringing you closer together or pushing you apart?
- Are you avoiding any family issues that need to be addressed?
- Do you express your appreciation for the people who matter to you?
Take this quick inventory, and tune in to any areas that may need attention. It’s a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day!
