New Year, New Relationship Possiblities

When we think of New Year's resolutions, we often think about personal goals.

Another positive resolution is to treat each other with kindness more often. Research shows that this is one the most important quality in a relationship. Everyone is human, and gets tired, stressed out, or frustrated, but how we communicate our feelings to one another is a choice. Choose to communicate kindly by expressing needs and feelings from a perspective of "I" as opposed to "you," as in "you don't.... or you always..." One tool I often use with couples is "The Five Love Languages." This is a relatively simple tool that highlights what leaves a person feeling most loved by their partner. For some, it is hugs and kisses more often. For others it's verbal appreciation or kind actions. Everyone is different, but knowing what helps your partner feel the most loved can go a long way is enhancing the quality of the relationship. With genuine effort and flexibility on both sides, relationships can grow and change in positive ways that you never expected!