Feedback – How’s Our Relationship Doing?

How Are We Doing?

We all have “stupid” spots and need caring, non-attacking feedback.
Without it, we won’t grow. ~ Jeani Poe, LoveRecon

You cannot grow without honest feedback. That is why in the Love Recon you were asked to rate your relationship, yourself as a mate and your mate as a mate. We introduced a Report Card Grading System to help you to think about how you would grade your relationship and each other. Today, think about this grading system and use it to evaluate your relationship.

A = We’re doing a great job! High five!

B = We’re doing a good job with room for improvement.

C = We’re just average with significant improvement needed.

D = Danger zone! We’re disconnected with an occasional spark of interest.

F = Code blue! We are shut down in this area.

Today, using this grading system, grade your relationship in the following six areas of intimacy and connectedness. Each of you share how you would grade these areas and then discuss what you could each do to help improve each area of your relationship. Each of you be open to how you could do a better job and become a better spouse in each area.

1. Emotional Intimacy – Sharing thoughts and feelings, hopes and dreams and desires.
2. Intellectual Intimacy – Sharing ideas. Learning new things together. Exchanging ideas and opinions about topics.
3. Physical Intimacy – Affectionate touches, holding hands, hugging, kissing, making love.
4. Financial Intimacy – Open sharing about our financial situation and developing a plan for our financial future.
5. Spiritual Intimacy – Sharing our religious beliefs and practices and our spiritual journey.
6. Recreational Intimacy- Spending time together participating in activities and events.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE: Run a bubble bath, light the candles, turn on the music and take a bubble bath together. That darn soap keeps slipping out of my hand. Whoops!

Suggested Scripture: Proverbs 27:6

• How can we improve communication in our relationship?

  Improving communication starts with active listening. Make sure to give your partner your full attention when they’re speaking. Avoid interrupting and show empathy towards their feelings. Regularly check in with each other about your needs and feelings, and set aside time for meaningful conversations without distractions.

• What should we do if we have different interests?

  It’s natural for couples to have different interests. Embrace your individuality while finding common activities you both enjoy. Respect and support each other’s hobbies and passions. You can also try introducing each other to your interests and see if there are new things you might both enjoy together.

• How can we keep the romance alive after many years together?

  Keeping the romance alive requires effort from both partners. Plan regular date nights, surprise each other with thoughtful gestures, and maintain physical affection. Communication is key—express your love and appreciation for each other frequently. Also, make time for new experiences and adventures together to keep the relationship exciting.

• What is the best way to handle disagreements and conflicts?

  Handling disagreements requires calm and respectful communication. Focus on the issue at hand without resorting to personal attacks. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and needs without blaming your partner. Find a compromise or solution that works for both of you, and don’t be afraid to seek help from a therapist if needed.

• How can we build trust in our relationship?

  Building trust takes time and consistency. Be honest and transparent with each other, and follow through on your commitments. Show reliability and dependability in both big and small matters. Address any breaches of trust openly and work together to rebuild it. Trust is reinforced through consistent actions and open communication.