My relationship with my husband is my TOP priority. When our relationship is strong and aligned we are able to work as a team to support each other and reach our peak performance in pursuit of our personal and shared goals.

To ensure that we’re really connecting and synchronised we prioritise weekly catch-ups. Every Wednesday night we set aside at least half an hour, away from distractions, and answer three simple questions:

1. What are three positive aspects or successes from the other party that you appreciate?
2. What are three areas where improvements could be made, or where you might need support?
3. Is there anything else we should discuss or address?

Taking time to reflect on the highlights of our week enables us to celebrate even the smallest victories and express gratitude for each other’s contributions. It warms my heart to hear Neven express his happiness, pride, or appreciation for moments like handling an errand with a smile or a spontaneous kiss. It makes me feel appreciated.

Navigating support and areas for improvement can be daunting and occasionally confrontational. Given that we both approach things with the best intentions, requesting specific assistance, particularly as a woman, can feel daunting. Nevertheless, through open dialogue, we find ourselves more productive and better equipped to articulate our genuine needs.

Recently, my husband raised the issue of streamlining the number of emails directed to him. We brainstormed solutions, leading to the decision to remove him from certain children’s calendar invites that I manage. We agreed that I would only involve him when his support was required or during non-working hours. On another occasion, I requested a few hours of uninterrupted time at home to focus on personal tasks, and both he and the kids graciously obliged.

Moreover, the openness to acknowledge areas for improvement fosters growth and understanding within our relationship. Sometimes, there’s nothing to improve, and that’s okay too—it’s a testament to the strength of our bond and the effort we both put into nurturing it.

In essence, these weekly catch-ups serve as a foundation for communication, empathy, and mutual support. They provide a dedicated space to prioritise our relationship amidst life’s chaos and reaffirm our commitment to each other.

So, if you’re looking to deepen your connections with loved ones, consider incorporating regular check-ins into your routine—you might be surprised by the positive impact it can have on your relationship.

Leave a comment below on how you plan to strengthen your bond with your loved one.