The New Year can signify different things to different couples; for some, it can be the perfect time to end a traumatic and distressing marriage after many years of uncertainties, and for other couples, a New Year indicates a new beginning, a period of reflection and evaluation of their marital relationships and their journey so far. Every New Year presents new opportunities for couples willing to make the necessary adjustments either in breaking away from unpleasant habits, setting new boundaries, or breaking new grounds together. Research states that around 43 per cent of couples who plan to re-evaluate their marriages at the start of every New Year usually fall short of their own expectations due to a lack of awareness and experience.
What are the things you plan to accomplish this year?
Marriage is a journey full of many great accomplishments along the way as well as challenges too. Every New Year creates a new opportunity for couples to set out their goals for their marriage and their plan to achieve them. Your goals can be simple or complex as long as you both believe in them and are prepared to walk together and hold each other accountable to achieve them. Challenges in your marriage may sometimes leave you feeling disappointed, nevertheless, do not allow these obstacles to stop you from reaching your goals as challenges are only temporary.
What are your barriers?
The New Year can also bring undesirable memories of the previous year which can create fear and uncertainty preventing you from looking forward to a fulfilling New Year ahead. If fear is going to be your biggest obstacle this year, act, seek solutions, and turn things around for the greater good of your marriage. Sometimes fear can be linked with childhood trauma or personal experiences before marriage which may need professional support to overcome your fears.
How do you plan to overcome these barriers?
No marriage is perfect as every marriage has its own ups and downs irrespective of the years. However, most couples struggle in their marriages today because they lack the emotional intelligence to navigate their marital issues. Honesty is the best policy in marriage which can break the barriers holding you and your spouse back. Approach barriers with open communication, do your best to sustain a peaceful resolution, and trust the process till the end. “Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.”— Maya Angelou
What are the sacrifices you are willing to make?
No sacrifice is too much to make to secure your goals this New Year as long as you are both prepared to have a fresh start and turn your past failures into successes. There is a time and place in marriage for trials and tribulations but there are also opportunities for tears of joy if you make that a priority in your marriage. Blissful marriages do not happen by accident, invest in your marriage this New Year, and make conscious efforts to invite positive influences into your lives and home. Whatever you do this year, invest in your own happiness. Step out of your comfort zones, and do things you have always wanted to do, go places together, make lovely memories and stay safe.
Goodluck in 2023!
