HOW TO THRIVE IN 2025

It’s something special when a married couple can come together to build and create the life they desire. For me, that is one of the highlights of being married, creating, building, establishing and implementing a life that is our own. I am a firm believer that every marriage should have its own DNA. It should look just like the two of you and not a carbon copy of someone else’s marriage. We have the unique ability to create our own rules, maintain our traditions and even create new lasting traditions. 

If you’ve been following me on my social media platforms for any length of time, you know how much I believe in having monthly meetings. My husband Darryl and I meet monthly to sketch out our calendars, discuss issues, and create goals. These meetings have always proven to be a good thing for us by keeping us accountable. The new year is here — don’t make resolutions that you can’t keep. Rather, challenge yourself and your spouse to create intentions and goals. I’m sharing ways you can thrive in the new year and beyond.

1. First things first! What are your 2025 priorities?
   Is there a specific focus this year? I say often that a vision and mission for your marriage is critical to the health and growth of your marriage. Avoid just existing! Identifying your top priorities is the smartest way to define what your vision should be. Your mission is “by what means” will you accomplish it. Ponder on this, what did 2024 teach you?  What things got accomplished and what needs to be brought back to the table to devise a better plan? Ask these and jot down the answers to help build and plan your year. 

2. Health and Wellness.
   In order for us to continue being MS thrivers, implement intentions and goals for your wellness. How do you want to show up healthwise this year? More exercise? Shed pounds? Or are there any lingering issues that you’re stressed about? Do you need new healthcare providers? Have you taken all of your age-appropriate exams last year? Begin the new year building a sustainable health and wellness plan to draw from and keep for years to come making any needed revisions to it yearly.

3. Marriage.
   Let’s definitely not exempt our marriages from thriving. I’ve counseled enough couples, including my own,  to know that life happens and we can allow our marital relationship to sink. Marriage is a living, breathing organism that needs tending to in order to thrive and grow. When your marriage is left unattended, it can die of malnourishment. It’s important that you meet consistently to address concerns or issues.  Initiating intimacy and closeness by being transparent with each other about what you need and see to it that it is accomplished. A thriving marriage takes investment, so also invest in marriage retreats or getaways to replenish the both of you.

Thriving means to flourish, prosper and grow! Who doesn’t want that?