Sharing the Dream
Every successful relationship begins with shared dreams, goals, and values. It begins with a shared vision. If you want your marriage to be long-lasting and the threat of divorce deterred, you need to set goals individually and as a couple working toward the same end. If you have different visions, you won't be working together and your relationship won't last long. In order to set goals and share a vision, you must decide what is important to you individually and as a couple. Explore the common ground so you can work together toward a common end. Be realistic about your goals as a couple. Prioritize them and keep them to a manageable number. Set deadlines and stepping stones along the way so you can measure your progress as a couple.
|
|
When you achieve a goal, you can add another to your list, but be sure you see the same end goal as your spouse. Your vision may change along the way because we all change and grow as our lives develop. Remember to sit down with your spouse and re-evaluate your goals from time to time and re-prioritize your list so you stay on track together.
The most important part about sharing the dream, sharing a vision together is open communication. Only through open communication can you really make sure you are on the same page. Some sacrifice is always involved in achieving goals, so be sure the sacrifices you make are agreeable as a couple.
Achieving goals such as successful careers, a large home, children, and the things of luxury are not easily attainable, and it takes a concerted effort on the part of both spouses to achieve your end goals after facing challenges and set-backs. Below are four things you can do as a couple to make sure you achieve your goals and share a successful vision:
- Dream Together: Be open about your hopes and dream with your spouse. Never criticize your spouse's dreams for the future even if they are vague or unrealistic. Make plans together and make sure you agree on the path you are going to set out on.
- Work Together: You may not share the work place, but you do share your home and work ethic. Share responsibility in the bread-winning and home responsibilities equally. If ever there is a time where one spouse feels that he or she is doing more for their vision than the other, it is time to sit down and talk about it. You can also work together in the community, your church, and in your kids' school. Working together builds strong marriages and helps you achieve your goals.
- Play Together: A date night once a week isn't only a good suggestion, it's been proven to make marriages stronger. It also helps you to achieve your vision. Be sure to reward yourselves for reaching your milestones and achieving your goals. Celebrate important occasions together like birthdays, holidays, and your wedding anniversary. Keep the love alive and plan a romantic get-away occasionally. You can stay on track if you are still together as a couple.
- Budget Together: Almost every goal you set as a couple will involve your finances in some way. One spouse needs to be in charge of the finances, but both of you should have input on the budget. Review your budget as a couple once a month so you know you are still on track for your goals.
Keep moving in the same direction and you'll achieve your goals. Be sure to take stock of where you're at and where you're going so you can be sure you are both on the same page and stay together, working toward the same end.
