top new years resolutions

Top New Year’s Resolutions Committed Couples Should Never Make

Everyone likes a good New Year’s Resolution. They’re expected, they’re fun, they’re glib, they’re trendy and, sometimes, they’re inspirational. Once in a while, they stick; most of the time, they don’t. I resolve to lose ten pounds. I resolve to go to the gym five times a week. I resolve to read a book every week. I resolve to put my credit card in a lockbox.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, Blah, blah, blah. Resolved today. Done by the end of the week. Then we’re either disappointed, disheartened or, if we’re honest, maybe a little bit glad that the game is over. Either way, what we’ve really done is to take a step or two backward. So, this year, how about bucking the trend and actually doing something unique? Here are 5 top new year’s resolutions to NOT make as a couple.

1. Lose each other in the rush

Time passes very quickly. Life with children is even faster. If we are not deliberate about our relationship with our spouse, it will slip away from us like sand through your fingers.

If we are not deliberate about our relationship, it will slip away like sand through our fingers.

2. Spend money we don’t have

The time to put the brakes on runaway spending is now. “I will not use the credit card without first talking with my spouse.” The power of this resolution is that it doesn’t require us to do anything; it simply draws a line with a promise not to cross over.

3. Go more than six days without a date

A date for a married couple can take many forms. One week may not seem like a long time, but a week is only the first step in the journey toward alienation. If we don’t draw the line somewhere, the drift is on.

4. Keep secrets

No financial secrets. No relationship secrets. No job secrets. Trust is a huge factor in a marriage that works. We won’t keep any secrets also means we will never break trust.

5. Give up

Yes, this is a take on the famous Winston Churchill quote. But it remains such an important concept. So often in today’s world, we are all too flighty! Where is that resolve to see things through? Going through a rough patch? Never give up! Trouble with one of the kids? Don’t you dare give up. Struggling with your passion, your intimacy? Never, never, never give up.

Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What are some things you would like to accomplish this year?”