Forming New Habits for Your Marriage

The wear and tear of everyday life can take a toll on even the happiest couples. Which is why marriage and family counselor Dr. Randy Schroeder says seeking daily happiness is unrealistic. A better approach is to pursue consistent marital satisfaction.

How? Through good habits.

Dr. Schroeder offers “4 daily essentials” that will help create good habits in your relationship with your spouse:

“Goodbye, I love you.” Whoever leaves the house each day first should be the one to say this.
“Goodnight, I love you.” Whoever goes to bed first should say this.
First five minutes. Each morning, set a positive atmosphere for your relationship by being kind and pleasant to each other first thing. When the first 5 minutes are positive, the remainder of your day is more likely to be positive.
Two within twenty. Connect in a meaningful way for 2 minutes within 20 minutes of reuniting at the end of the day. This is not a time to vent your stress onto each other. Focus your attention on your spouse and give them a meaningful kiss and hug.

Dr. Randy Schroeder is with us on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Forming New Habits for Your Marriage” to share these tips and may more. Listen on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.

And while you’re online, why not take a few moments to try our free Marriage Assessment online tool? It will help you quickly determine what’s working well in your relationship and identify areas where you may need some improvement.

If your marriage could use some help, we have caring Christian counselors on staff, and it would be their privilege to offer you a free consultation. Call us, leave your name and number, and they’ll get back with you just as soon as possible. The number during business hours is 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).

Before I close, I invite you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Dr. Schroeder’s book Simple Habits for Marital Happiness: Practical Skills and Tools That Build a Strong Satisfying Relationship as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, visit our website.