New Year's Resolutions for Strengthening Your Marriage - Part 3

By Dr. Michelle Gannon

This is the time of year when many of us make New Year's resolutions. Couples that invest in their marriages have more satisfying, pleasurable interactions with each other because great marriages do not just happen. It's time we all make some New Year's resolutions together and focus on our relationships.

Step one is to sit down with your spouse, grab a pen and paper, a glass of wine or cup of tea-this exercise is supposed to be relaxed and enjoyable-and brainstorm together some New Year's resolutions for your marriage.

3. Make deeper commitment to have the best relationship possible.

Consider reading some relationship books together or taking a marriage seminar.

There is a great, national directory at: Smart Marriages <http://www.smartmarriages.com/app/Directory.BrowsePrograms> or check out the "Events" section on the Married Life Network. <http://marriedlife.hitchedmag.com/>

Check in weekly or monthly with each other to see how you are doing with your relationship goals.

What kind of marriage do you want to have? Are you being the people you want to be and having the relationship that you really want?

Make your marriage a priority.

I believe the most important gift that you can give yourself and your children is the feeling of a healthy, loving marriage.

Happy New Year's everyone!