Building Stronger Relationships

As the year draws to a close, it is the perfect time to pause and reflect on your relationship. Whether you’ve have experienced a whirlwind romance, a steady long-term relationship, navigating a challenging relationship or your relationship is just blossoming, this time of the year, is a great way to grow, have a little bit of fun and add on extra TLC to your relationship!  

Let’s face it, the holidays can be merry, and they can also test even the strongest couples! So, let’s get into some tips on how to strengthen your relationship during the holiday season and keep the spark alive even in the new year. 

First, let’s celebrate how far you have come as a couple this year. Every relationship has its own unique journey! The fact that you are reading this post shows that you care about nurturing your relationship, that’s worth celebrating and I celebrate you a thousand times…You are already on the right track! 

Building a strong relationship is like building a house. First, the foundation has to be strong, the right materials have to be used for the structure and the roofing will protect everything you have worked for. 

Ok, let’s get into simple steps that you can take to build a stronger relationship. 

Prioritize Communication

Open and honest communication is the foundation of a strong relationship. Make it a habit to check in, share thoughts and actively listen to each other. Here are some fun things you can do to lay a strong foundation: 

Start a daily check-in ritual: 

Set aside some time in your day to intentionally check in with your partner. You can call it the “unplugging Moment” – a time when you will get rid of distractions, be fully present and engage with one another. 

Create a communication jar:  

Get a jar and fill it with prompts – fun and deep conversation starters. Take turns in picking one prompt and answering the question on it. You can have questions like: “What is your favorite memory of us?” or “what was the most thoughtful gift I got from you?” …. Remember to make it fun! 

Start a 2-minute conversation challenge: 

This one is simple and a great way for couples to have meaningful conversations uninterrupted. Set a timer for 2 minutes and one person will share what is on their mind without interruption. Then switch! Make it lighthearted and set a time limit that works best for you. My suggestion is 5 minutes at the most 

Invest in Quality Time Together

Quality time is the number one material for building a solid structure for your relationship. Make the time you spend with your partner count. Here are a few fun things you can do to be intentional and reinforce the structure of your relationship: 

Create a Year-End Tradition 

Tradition is a great way to build connections. Start a fun tradition of reflecting on the year together? Grab a cozy blanket, pour some hot cocoa (or your beverage of choice), and reminisce about the moments, adventures, and even the challenges you overcame together.  

Create a Couple Bucket List for the next year 

Just like making resolutions for yourself, set some relationship goals for the new year together. Write down – what you want to accomplish as a couple in the new year? What experiences do you want to share in the new year? It could be trying a new hobby together, planning a getaway, or even just dedicating one night a month to “date night.” 

Show Appreciation

Appreciation and Gratitude shields your relationship from negativity. Here’s how you can build a strong roof that would protect your relationship. 

Write little notes, send texts: 

Everyone loves to be appreciated and celebrated, so write small heartfelt messages of appreciation to your partner. Whether it is handwritten or via text, these messages will let your partner know how much you mean to them. 

Create a gratitude jar:  

Take a moment to write down what you appreciate in your partner. Right now, make a list of the little things, the big things and everything in between that makes you grateful for your partner and share it with them. As the new year is approaching, get a jar and each time your partner does something you appreciate, write it down and add it to the jar. By the end of next year, gift the jar to your partner as a heartfelt reminder.  

Here are Some Additional Resources for More Information: 

If you find that you need more support in your relationship, remember that professional help is available. Consider seeing one of our therapists at OK Clinical for personalized support.  We offer in-person, phone and online appointments to suit your needs.  

To learn more, click on our OK Clinical Counselling Team to find the right fit for you. You can also complete our online form; we will match you with a counsellor who specializes in relationship-related or couples’ therapy.  If you have any questions, you can call us at 250-718-9291 or email us at info@okclinical.com or chat with us online at OKClinical.com. We are here to help! You can also check out our General Counseling Services, learn about the Types of Therapy we offer, or visit our booking page here.

Written by: Nike Famojuro, Practicum Student

Nike@coastalclinical.com

To book: Click Here!