BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR YOUR FOREVER AFTER
We absolutely adore celebrating love stories here at Abernethy Center. It's the heartbeat of our existence, creating a space for couples to embark on their journey towards a lifetime of happiness. But let's face it – the path to happily ever after is not always paved with rose petals and fairy dust. Relationships require effort, patience, and a willingness to navigate the highs and lows of life together. In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we're taking a detour from our usual wedding talk to explore the secrets of enduring love, drawing inspiration from the wisdom of marriage researcher and relationship expert John Gottman. You can read more about The Gottman Institute HERE.
ITS OK TO GO TO BED ANGRY
Contrary to popular belief, going to bed angry isn't the relationship death knell we've been led to believe. Sometimes, a good night's sleep can be a magical reset button. John Gottman's research suggests that taking a break during a heated argument allows emotions to settle, providing a fresh perspective the next day. So, don't be afraid to hit pause, catch some z's, and approach the issue with a clearer mind when the sun rises.
YOU, ME, AND THE RELATIONSHIP MAKE THREE
Your relationship is a living, breathing entity that deserves its own care and attention. It's not just about "you" and "me" – it's about the synergy of "us." Embrace mutual responsibility for nurturing this shared entity. Gottman's research emphasizes the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and a united front when facing challenges.
Remember, the strength of your bond lies in the strength of your partnership.
SAY MY NAME, SAY MY NAME
Beyond the sweet pet names and terms of endearment, using your partner's actual name is a potent tool. A person's name holds a unique power, and hearing it from your partner reinforces the sense of being seen and known. So, sprinkle those names into your conversations. It's a simple yet profound way to deepen your connection.
STAY FRESH
Routine can be comforting, but injecting freshness into your relationship is like adding a burst of color to a masterpiece. Make trying new things together a priority. Whether it's exploring a new hobby, planning spontaneous weekend getaways, or experimenting with a cooking class, novelty keeps the spark alive. Gottman's research underscores the importance of shared adventures and playfulness in maintaining a thriving connection.
KEEP TRACK OF THE GOOD STUFF
In the ebb and flow of daily life, it's easy to overlook the positive gestures that weave the fabric of a strong relationship. Take a cue from Gottman's findings and actively identify at least five things your partner routinely does to express love. Track both the small, everyday moments and the grand gestures that make your heart swell with warmth. Studies reveal that successful relationships thrive on a ratio of at least five positive interactions to every negative one. So, celebrate the good, and let it outweigh the challenging moments.
SHARE YOUR PERFECT DAY
Dive into the depths of your partner's dreams by sharing your perfect day over a cozy meal. Open up about your likes, dislikes, hopes, and dreams in vivid detail. This exercise not only fosters deep understanding but also provides a roadmap for creating shared moments of joy.
Planning and experiencing each other's perfect days can be a powerful way to strengthen your emotional connection.
FOREVER VALENTINES
In the grand tapestry of love, the threads of understanding, patience, and kindness are woven into the fabric of enduring relationships. As you embark on the journey of forever after, remember that the adventure lies not only in the destination but in the shared moments and lessons learned along the way. Here's to building a foundation that withstands the tests of time and to crafting a love story that only grows richer with each passing day. Cheers to love, growth, and the magic of building your forever after!
