A Common Love Mistake that a New Years Resolution Won’t Fix

Since the new year is just hours away, it’s pretty normal to think about how you want your life and relationships to be different in the coming year–and maybe make resolutions around them. You might want… *A different job *Better communication with your loved ones …

A Common Love Mistake that a New Years Resolution Won’t Fix Read More »

The post A Common Love Mistake that a New Years Resolution Won’t Fix appeared first on Susie & Otto Collins.

from Blog – Susie & Otto Collins http://bit.ly/2Vmlb1a

6 Ways to Stop Worrying About the Small Stuff

Ten Signs You’ve Found the One

If Only I Found the One Many believe that if they found the One, life would be perfect. If only we found the One, then love would be easy and effortless. This belief has created a lot of trouble for people, especially in the area of commitment. By insisting on finding a perfect partner, many […]

The post Ten Signs You’ve Found the One appeared first on Love in 90 Days.

from Love in 90 Days http://bit.ly/2EUWXW4

How to Make (and Keep) New Year’s Resolutions for Your Relationship

Make 2019 the best year yet for your relationship.

The post How to Make (and Keep) New Year’s Resolutions for Your Relationship appeared first on The Gottman Institute.

from The Gottman Relationship Blog – The Gottman Institute http://bit.ly/2GJUwrJ

Healing From Traumatic Relationships

How to Experience More Relationship Peace and Love Even in Uncertainties…

There’s a “missing piece” that blocks so many people from creating the relationship peace and love they want in their life. And one of the paths to finding this missing piece to creating more peace and love in your life is to know that you …

How to Experience More Relationship Peace and Love Even in Uncertainties… Read More »

The post How to Experience More Relationship Peace and Love Even in Uncertainties… appeared first on Susie & Otto Collins.

from Blog – Susie & Otto Collins http://bit.ly/2Agjids

The Ultimate Guide to Parenting Right

The ultimate guide to parenting right…Does not exist

You are not a parent yet or you have extremely well-behaved kids if you fell for that title. And we all know that cannot be true. It would be so great if someone hands you a manual to follow and pass the parenting exam with flying colors, right?  Well if you are a parent, we are sure you had a good laugh looking at the title and also at the person who claims to have got parenting right.

But what if the person who has supposedly got parenting right is too close for comfort? Maybe,‘Your Spouse’? Let’s take a light-hearted look at some of the most common parenting issues that couples encounter and how we think you can deal with them!

Who’s turn is it to manage the children over the weekend?

It is the dad’s turn to unwind before a ‘hectic’ work week and mom’s turn to take a break and let her hair down and therefore the big question – who will manage the kids?

You know what all the mommies and daddies? The kids don’t need you to look after them all the time. So let them relax a bit, allow them to watch some TV, read some books and get their elbows and knees bruised a bit and for a change – let them look after themselves. It will do you both extremely good!

Why can’t I notice anything in its place anymore?

The children are already late for school and your better half too can’t seem to find their sock and suddenly the environment at home gets charged with a seemingly simple question: “Why is everything out of place?” In that one statement, you have already stirred a hornet’s nest.

Do you mean to say that your spouse is the reason for not able to find stuff in the house? That they are expected to clean up after everyone in the house including the kids? Take my word: Just wear two different pairs of socks to work if you can’t find the matching pair – it is the in thing these days.

Why don’t you go to work like ‘XYZ’ stay at home?

Ahem, did you get up on the wrong side of the bed today? Or haven’t you had a run-in with the boss these past few days? Whatever your reason may be before you unintentionally (of course) uttered this statement, you better UNDO it and soon.  Do we need to say more?

We should let the kid handle with the situation

Imagine this. Your toddler comes home crying about a bully at school and all you want to do is to give that bully a piece of your own mind. And the spouse, (who has not been part of the proceedings) offers you advice like a consultant. You do not want to scream! I hear you! But hey, the consultant is right maybe just this instance? Take up kickboxing or punch a doll instead?

Day off doesn’t mean ‘No Rules Day’

Sorry to break the bubble but parenting doesn’t come with holidays fellas. So, before you decide to let the children watch a bit more on TV, or eat an extra bar of chocolate you better take your spouse into confidence. After all who wants to be assigned to a day of folding laundry and doing dishes?

Your child is just like you

Now, that is a statement, ladies and gentlemen. And somehow the better halves have perfected the timing on this. They choose to make a smart-aleck comment just when you think you are ready to tear your hair (or the kids’) over something. And about how similar they find the kid and you in this situation, no less. Word of advice to the smart spouses: That ain’t a smart move.

We hope you had a laugh or two while reading this article!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Parenting Right appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog http://bit.ly/2TdBhsa

Top 3 Benefits of Massage in Relationships

Targeted massage can reduce stress, eliminate pain, and soothe muscle tension. In fact, certain types of massage are widely considered parts of integrative and/or alternative medicine. A good kneading makes most people feel comforted, cared for, and connected to another person. In a disconnected world, we need all the help we can get.

3 Ways massage directly affects your relationship

A good massage can help alleviate pain, stress and joint stiffness without medication.

This makes it easier to engage in the things you truly enjoy, such as physical intimacy with your partner without suffering through the side effects of some pharmaceuticals.

Furthermore, targeted massage provides the following health benefits which, interestingly enough, directly affect a person’s ability to maintain a relationship:

• It induces relaxation
• It lowers blood pressure
• It helps regulate sleep patterns

As most would agree, three common causes of modern-day relationship problems are:

• Sleep deprivation
• Anxiety or tension
• Unmanaged stress

As it turns out, healthy people tend to sustain longer, healthier unions. So, not only is massage beneficial to your health but it may also be advantageous to your relationship.

How health and happiness are related

There’s a direct correlation between health and happiness, creating a much clearer line between massage and relationships. Those who participate in or receive a massage often enjoy better fitness and contentment overall. Therefore, relationship dynamics are significantly improved as a result of a more optimally functioning individual.

People who regularly enjoy a massage by a chiropractor usually exhibit the following characteristics due to the built-in benefits thereof:

1. They have more productive sleep at night, which:

• Causes them to have fewer mood swings
• Makes their memories clearer and more vivid
• Drastically improves their basic cognitive function
• Strengthens their immunities
• Gives them more energy for the things they love

2. They have lower blood pressure, which:

• Makes it easier to enjoy strenuous physical activity
• Lowers their risk of heart attack and stroke
• Enhances erections, orgasm, and stamina
• Broadens their dietary options
• Helps them lose weight

3. They have less oxidative stress, which:

• Allows them to get into a relaxed state more easily
• Aids with conflict resolution
• Significantly boosts libido
• Helps improve their appearance

Interestingly, a study at Stanford University’s Sleep Medicine Center showed that stressed out, sleep deprived people reported more problems in the bedroom than those who were relaxed and well rested. Unfortunately, a lack of physical intimacy between couples can lead to disaster.

Making the connection: What is chiropractic massage?

Although they are not medical doctors, any chiropractor will tell you that good health and satisfying physical intimacy start with self-care and consideration for your partner’s wellbeing. By participating in a couple’s chiropractic massage, both individuals benefit and both are thus more willing and able to engage their partner in a productive and encouraging way.

Chiropractic massage uses a series of gentle yet effective therapy and relaxation techniques to achieve a predetermined goal. Much like the physical intimacy within your relationship, licensed chiropractors will never do anything to make you or your partner feel uncomfortable or experience pain.

Chiropractors provide hands-on therapy to patients for a variety of health and intimacy-related issues, from sleep irregularities, muscle tension and high blood pressure to pinched nerves, severe pain, and headaches.

10 Ways chiropractic massage helps intimacy

The reasons chiropractic massage improves a person’s health (and subsequently enhances their relationship) are simple:

1. It speeds up recovery from sprains and injuries
2. It broadens the patient’s range of motion
3. It treats muscular and musculoskeletal pain
4. It uses gentle yet effective rehabilitative exercises and pressure points, as opposed to potentially harmful and sometimes unsuccessful medications
5. It can alleviate pain and anxiety almost immediately, with results typically noticed within 12 to 48 hours of the appointment
6. It’s a fun and relaxing activity to do with a partner
7. It helps soothe headaches and nausea
8. It’s generally more affordable than a traditional doctor’s visit and insurance sometimes covers the appointment
9. It typically requires no major adjustments to lifestyle or routine
10. It improves mood, balances hormones, and helps the patient manage future stress for diplomatically

All side effects of chiropractic massage are intimately tied to the quality of your relationship, but they will only work as intended if you:

• Make an appointment with a skilled and licensed chiropractor
• Know what to expect during the massage
• Understand the results are usually not permanent

The post Top 3 Benefits of Massage in Relationships appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog http://bit.ly/2VbXIPZ

5 Signs You’re About to Get Back Together with Your Ex

It is the same old story.

You and your ex-partner have split, but for some unknown reasons, he still lingers in your life. Whether you share mutual friends or are in the same office or lecture, you seem to be constantly running into your previous significant other.

At first, it makes you feel quite awkward, but at some point, you find yourself at peace with that. Sooner than you think, you are having cappuccino together and texting more frequently.

Suddenly, it feels like an indescribable wave of emotion came over you and you’re getting closer to the relationship territory. But, you’re done with that story…right?

Here are some signs that the break-up scar is being mended and you’re not even realizing it

1. Pay attention to each other when out with friends

The sign number one that proves your hearts are about to beat as one is that you two are too busy talking to each other when you’re hanging out with your friends. Keep in mind that it’s not only the conversation that matters here! It’s also about what exactly you two tend to discuss.

Chatting about private affairs and feeling nostalgic over the past could be the possible indicators that you’re on your way to Loveland.

To cut a long story short, when that innocuous talk turns from your favorite Instagram channels and political decisions of Trump to personal matters like that fantastic date you’ve had in that Italian restaurant or how your ex’s mom is doing after divorce, the two of you might get back together sooner than you think.

2. You have a serious talk about why you split up

If you and your ex-significant other starts to discuss the causes that stand behind your breakup, this could serve as the biggest sign that you’re going to rebuild the relationship.

Actually talking about what made you break up is a mature (and usually uncomfortable) situation. So, if you feel like you can deal with this talk with due maturity, you could be ready to give your past a second chance.

3. They wonder who you sleep with

If your ex is curious about your love life, it could mean that s/he is probing where you are now and if the potential to bring back good old days actually exists.

Is s/he trying to find out whether you’re single? That’s a great sign they don’t mind revisiting that relationship again!

4. They are single and you’re the first to know

If your ex is about to create a huge banner saying, “I am single!” and carry it around, it could mean that s/he is trying to see if it means anything to you.

If you have deep feelings for your ex, knowing s/he isn’t seeing someone at the moment, will let you know the person is available for a happy reunion.

5. You’re socially connected

If you realize that your ex seems to be stalking you on the web, whether it’s liking your recent Facebook post or using the same essay writing service, it’s a sign that s/he’s thinking about you.

If that’s the case, chances are the things aren’t emotionally over between you two (at least, on the ex’s part).

So, what it comes down to is that you just have to be careful. Make sure to treat your ex like a stranger, if you don’t think you can make it once again. And if you allow the possibility of getting together, let your ex-partner earn your trust as if all these years have never existed.

Only you know what exactly broke your heart and what will make you feel happy in a relationship. If you think you two can mend it, trust your gut.

Just avoid hasty decisions on this matter.

The post 5 Signs You’re About to Get Back Together with Your Ex appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog http://bit.ly/2AhVSnV

7 Ways to Strengthen Marriage and Avoid Problems

Marriage always starts with the promise of “loving each other happily ever after, and the sweet line “till death do us part.” Some of these promises work out for many couples, but some do not that they end up to separation.

Marriage is the result of happiness and genuine love shared by the couple to each other.

Both should spend time and effort to make it work.

Here are top 7 ways to live a happy and happy married life

1. Maintain communication

Communication is the vehicle that carries all the other essential aspects of marriage.

Even if you love someone, when you don’t use actions and words to communicate, you are not doing it right. If you want a happy and healthy marriage, practice open and honest communication.

If both of you feel very comfortable to express desires, fears, and needs, bonds and trusts will be strengthened. In fact, even body languages such as leaning away or forward, touching someone’s arm or eye contact are important to communication.

Most marriages go through tough times because they don’t communicate with their partners often.

2. Stay patient

Couples often argue because one is hot-tempered and the other is mad, which keeps the fire burning.

Being patient is being calm during rough times.

It’s like big-scale patience that is essential when hard times come. Whatever challenges may come, choose to remain calm and optimistic instead of complaining about the situation. Focus on the good things and stay hopeful and confident that things might get better very soon.

Always remind yourself that patience is one of the most vital aspects of love.

It may be hard sometimes to be patient during the bad days, but it can go a long way to keep the spark in your marriage and avoid problems that can ruin your relationship.

3. Rely on each other

Right at the onset of marriage, couples are more likely to make their own plans for their future together along the way.

But when conflicts come, and they become unbearable, couples tend to drift away from each other. They eventually forget to ask help from each other and choose to work things on their own.

You should understand that you got each other’s back, and you can rely on each other through good times and bad.

Your marriage is healthy when both of you can count on each other even during simple tasks like planning a birthday party or looking for an event planner for a special occasion.

4. Give and get love every day

Have you been spending your life with your partner, 10, 20, or 50 years now? Are there changes on how you treat each other?

With the long years of being together, you will surely recognize some changes in how he or she connects and deals with you. Here’s the thing. As time passes by, there are instances that you may feel cold to each other, to the extent that you seem unfamiliar to each other, which in turn results into war and separation.

Keep your marriage in shape by giving and getting love every day and by appreciating each other.

5. Do random surprises

Love can’t be bought.

While it is true that money can help, but surprises can make a significant impact on a relationship. You can’t surely go wrong with the simple good morning text. You can carve a sweet smile on your partner’s face by doing some random surprises such as giving her gifts or treating her to a candlelight dinner during her birthday or your anniversary.

All those little things count.

6. Travel together

Travelling is one of the most amazing things a couple can do together.

Create memories with each other by going to places together and enjoying every moment in romantic ways. Trust us, a day on the road with your loved one is more enriching than a candlelight dinner or shopping.

Traveling with your spouse is also an amazing way to explore the world.

It is a great way to find out why you love each other. Whether you’ve been married for one year or twenty, traveling is a good way to stay connected.

7. Be a team

When the husband and wife are on the same page, things get better.

Being a team creates free-flowing positive feelings and avoids resentment and score-keeping.  If couple’s don’t consider themselves as a team, they can resent the other for having more fun or for not helping enough.

A relationship is a team sport.

Both of you bring unique talents and gifts to come up with something great that either of you cannot do alone.

Although there are one thousand and one ways to be a better partner, this list of top 7 ways to improve your marriage are focused on avoiding major problems that can tear marriages apart.

 

The post 7 Ways to Strengthen Marriage and Avoid Problems appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog http://bit.ly/2QSPTR0

9 Amazing Diy Gifts for Young Couples

It’s always nice to receive presents but presents created by hand and with a personal touch have a greater value.

Here are 9 DIY best gifts for your couple you can easily make and put a smile on his or her face.

1. “Date night” jar

What do you need?

Some jar, black sharpie, and colored popsicle sticks.

How to make it?

First, come up with ideas for date nights. Think about things you like to do and what would be interesting to try. Then write down all the possibilities on the colored sticks and put them in a jar.

Each color of the stick represents different activity. For example, home or outdoor activity, cheap or expensive date.

2. DIY heart map poster

What do you need?

Scissors, glue, frame with a mat, scrapbook paper, an old map, and acid-free card stock.

How to make it?

Make two heart templates, one small and the other a little bit bigger. Then put the smaller heart around places you’ve been and cut them out. Glue heart maps to the bigger templates of scrapbook paper.

Finally, glue all the hearts to card stock and put it in a frame.

3. Letters to open

What do you need?

Crayons, envelopes, and cards.

How to make it?

On the envelopes, draw a heart and write ‘Open when… ‘, and then add some particular situation.

Example –  You are having a bad day. Next, on the card that you’ll put in the envelope write down a message that will make your partner happy. Wrap all the messages with a bow.

4. Relaxation kit

What do you need?

Some massage oil or lotion, some bubble bath items, candles, relaxing music, and some drink.

How do you make it?

Pack all the items in a basket and add a nice printable tag. This relaxation kit can consist of anything that would help your partner de-stress. Create a relaxing atmosphere with candles and adequate music.

Finally, enjoy the bubble bath, a massage or anything that will put your mind and body at ease.

5. Latitude-longitude art

What do you need?

Burlap, frame, black paint for fabric, and freezer paper.

How to make it?

Find out the coordinates of the place that’s important to you. Then, cut a stencil from freezer paper by Silhouette or hand. With painter’s tape ensure the burlap onto the back of the frame. Finally, place burlap into the frame.

Simple, but effective!

6. Love notes in a jar

What do you need?

Colorful papers and some jar.

How to make it?

Simply write notes about special moments or memories from your relationship, some reasons you love your significant other or some quotes or lyrics that mean to you. Also, you can color code them, for instance, pink notes are for memories and moments, yellow for lyrics and so on.

7. Candy poster

What do you need?

Candy bars and printed poster.

How do you make it?

First, create a poster in a digital form and get it printed. You can use templates, so you don’t need to start everything from scratch. Then, buy some candy bars and attach them to the blank spaces on the poster.

And that would be all!

8. Bacon hearts

What do you need?

Oven, baking sheet and bacon.

How to make it?

Put a baking sheet on a pan that has sides and turn your oven at 400. Then, cut twelve slices of bacon in half and create a heart-shaped form on a sheet pan.

Bake them for around 18 to 25 minutes and enjoy! Buon appetite!

9. Personalized bulletin board

What do you need?

A bulletin board, some photos and event tickets.

How to make it?

Gather all your memories from various events, such as tickets and photos. Pin them to your bulletin board. This will definitely put a smile on your partners face every time he or she looks at it.

Also, you can find another way to personalize a bulletin board with other memories, songs or quotes, says Catherine, a creative writer from BestEssayTips.

DIY gifts may not turn as perfect as in pictures, but your partner will appreciate them because you made them with your heart and soul.

The post 9 Amazing Diy Gifts for Young Couples appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog http://bit.ly/2GCUFxa

Are Women in FLRs Superior to the Men?

I received the most interesting analysis and questioning of my philosophy concerning Loving FLRs from a new reader. His questions deserve a public response. Just in case anyone else is confused about my perspective on FLRs after writing 5 books about FLRs and teaching multiple coaching programs, check out my insight. Shouldn’t a Woman in
+ Read More

The post Are Women in FLRs Superior to the Men? appeared first on Loving FLR.

from Loving FLR http://bit.ly/2EPC3bG

Why is Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes Presenting D/S and FLR Content Without Crediting FLR Teachers?

I was warned by a reader of LovingFLR.Com that a woman by the name of Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes who is the Executive Director of ALLCEUs.Com had used my information word for word in a presentation on D/s and Female Led Relationships and posted it on her Counseling YouTube channel. I clicked the link and saw
+ Read More

The post Why is Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes Presenting D/S and FLR Content Without Crediting FLR Teachers? appeared first on Loving FLR.

from Loving FLR http://bit.ly/2GEfaJP

#TheToolbox Best of Emotional Health and Relationships 2018

Top 3 Reasons Men Crave Loving Female Led Relationships

Most men crave being involved with a Powerful Woman in a Loving Female Led Relationship and it can happen for many of them if they decide that the woman who presents herself is more important than the fantasy they have in their minds. Yes, the fantasies men hold for Loving FLRs are the very thing
+ Read More

The post Top 3 Reasons Men Crave Loving Female Led Relationships appeared first on Loving FLR.

from Loving FLR http://bit.ly/2SjMZRI

Loving Female Led Relationships Are Not A Kink or Fetish for Submissive Men

Because I received an email from a subscriber named James with naked photos as attachments, I thought this sentiment was worth repeating so that every man knows the truth about Loving Female Led Relationships. Loving Female Led Relationship are not a kink or fetish for submissive men. Loving FLR does not promote BDSM, kink, fetish
+ Read More

The post Loving Female Led Relationships Are Not A Kink or Fetish for Submissive Men appeared first on Loving FLR.

from Loving FLR http://bit.ly/2BEYzQv

Public Figures Go to Couples Therapy, Too

As John and Julie Gottman like to say, we’re all in the same soup.

The post Public Figures Go to Couples Therapy, Too appeared first on The Gottman Institute.

from The Gottman Relationship Blog – The Gottman Institute https://ift.tt/2A3InIz

Unique Ideas on How to Propose to a Woman and Make Her Say Yes

Proposing might be one of the most recalled aspects of married life.

You’ll recount on numerous occasions the tale of how you proposed, probably for the rest of your married life.  So you may as well make it a fun, cute or romantic story so that recounting the story of your proposal doesn’t make your toes curl.

There are plenty of options for how to propose to a woman that will suit women of all interests. However one of the most common factors that most women will appreciate is a touch of romance.

In this article, we are going to show you how to propose to a woman romantically.

Of course, we are assuming that you’ve already taken into account some of the fundamental aspects of learning how to propose to a woman such as –

● Making sure you are ready for marriage
● Finding out if your girlfriend is interested in marriage or getting married to you
● Asking your girlfriend’s Father for her hand in marriage (optional)
● Organizing the engagement ring
● Planning when you will pop the question
● Figuring out what you will say

Once you’ve put all of those elements on your radar, you can get down to the fun part – how to propose to a woman romantically?

Here are some of our favorite ideas for you to consider

Proposing in public

This idea should come with a warning that it’s only suitable for those who are not too shy and don’t mind some attention to them.

There are of course some people who are generally shy but would appreciate the romantic gesture. So our first tip for how to propose to a woman is to know her preferences.

If you see her light up occasionally when getting a bit of attention, then she might love this style of proposing. But, if she squirms from any attention, move onto something more private.  

Here are our ideas for proposing in public

1. Significant location

Choose a significant location or favorite place.  Ask for someone to take a picture and get down on one knee.

2. Arrange for a song and dance performance

Make a song and dance about your proposal, get a dance mob involved, or a band, or parade, make things personal such as having the dance mob have the question in letters on t-shirts that are hidden at first.  Have a banner with the question on as part of the parade, or have the proposal written into the lyrics of the songs the band is singing.

3. Schedule the time

Arrange to propose before, during or after a show, by contacting the manager of the locations.  Each location should present you with some creative ideas for how to incorporate the event or place into a marriage proposal.

4. Proposing to a woman privately

For those who like things to be a little more intimate, here are some great ideas for how to propose to a woman. This time the romance is all kept between the two of you.  

5. Whisk your girlfriend away on a romantic getaway

Spend the day sightseeing. After the first round of drinks in the bar, arrange for roses, champagne, and everything else you can think of to set up the room so that you can end the day with a romantic proposal.

6. Write the question on the ceiling

Use glow in the dark stickers and write the question on the ceiling so that when you are in bed, the question will reveal itself.

7. Use the street of the driveway

Chalk the proposal on the street or in your driveway.

8. Slip the ring while she is asleep

While your girlfriend is sleeping slip the ring on her finger, then plan for a romantic breakfast and day out together to celebrate.

9. Arrange for a gift basket

Create a gift basket or hamper with lots of lovely surprises in it, one of them being the ring and your proposal.

There are other examples of how to propose a woman romantically

The list of ideas that you can come up with is endless, but what is most important when figuring out how to propose to a woman is, how to make it unique and personal to you both as a couple.  

If you are a funny guy and she adores your humor, you can be sure that she’d also love a fun proposal, especially if you backed it up with some romantic touches to show that you are serious about your intentions. If you are a straight baller, then get it out straight and direct.  

The best proposals are the ones that are not superficial or what somebody thinks they should do. They should be about you two, just as your marriage will be about you both.

So, if you both adore your pet cat, then why not tie the ring to the cat’s collar with a note attached?

Pretty much anything goes when you are figuring out how to propose to a woman, as long as you have thought about it. You’ll definitely get brownie points though if you can demonstrate how much the memories you have already created mean to you.  

The post Unique Ideas on How to Propose to a Woman and Make Her Say Yes appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2A7juf0

11 Tips for Running a Successful Business with Your Spouse

If you are running any business, it is going to influence the business owners to home life.

But when you are running a successful business with your spouse, it can present a whole new level of challenges. The business challenges you will experience will influence your marriage and your marriage will impact your business.   

While many people have run a successful business with their spouse, it takes a few extra considerations and a lot more teamwork than would be necessary if only one of you was running the business.  

So with this in mind, here are our tips for running a successful business with your spouse while maintaining a happy marriage

Prepare well.

1. Pay attention to the pitfalls

It’s all too easy to think that running a successful business with your spouse might be easy. It might also be easy to overlook any possible problems during the planning phase because the notion of running a successful business is too desirable.  So, you might not want to address the pitfalls of running a business with your spouse just in case you are put off from doing it.

The perception of running a successful business with your spouse can be too desirable to let yourself be put off by a few problems.

But if you don’t stop and pay attention to the possible pitfalls, or carefully plan for all aspects of the business, you won’t give yourself a chance to create the life you dream of.

Your marriage might just be compromised too.  

It’s vital for any startup to plan their business well, and failing to prepare is often the reason why so many people fail.

It’s especially important to address all potential problems when you are running a business with your spouse so that you don’t both lose your income, or start to blame each other for any problems you might experience.

2. Research well

To Make sure you are ready to run a successful business with your spouse, research the impact that running a business with a spouse has had on others.

Discuss between you and your spouse how you will handle similar situations if they crop up in your business. 

3. Plan for how you’ll deal with problems

In this planning phase, it helps to create a policy that you can both default to when there are problems. So that you can maintain clear communication and avoid unhelpful emotion.  

You could even form a code word for the times when one spouse is not recognizing that the other is serious about needing to discuss a problem.

4. Consider the pros and cons

There will be pros and cons for starting any business and pros and cons for running a successful business with your spouse. Make sure you address both and build strategies to handle the cons.  

5. Protect your family finances

When you are running a successful business with your spouse, you won’t need to be worried about money because it should be rolling in (if the business is indeed successful).

But in the start-up phase that’s not likely to be the case. You will probably experience cash flow problems from time to time and also make mistakes with your investments, products or services.

Having a contingency built into your budget for issues is a great strategy for protecting your family finances as is being clear about your budgets and financial boundaries. It’s also worth agreeing on what situations will cause you to have to quit to protect your finances so that you don’t continue sabotaging your private life and your marriage out of desperation for the business to work.  

6. Don’t be optimistic about the business costs involved

Overestimating the cost involved to run a successful business with your spouse is vital most people are far too optimistic.

Work out your living expenses and lifestyle budgets frequently so that you know what you are dealing with at any point in time.

7. Communicate well

At any phase of their marriage, this is not a piece of new advice for any married couple. But it’s so important.

If you don’t discuss your business plans, the pros, and cons of everything, and ground rules that you must stick by then before long things go awry, and that will have a direct impact on your marriage.

Just save yourself the hassle and make an effort to apply the groundwork and communication you’ll be glad you did in the long term.  

8. Play to your differing strengths

Share out the business responsibilities that play to each other’s strengths and factor in for the weaknesses. Assigning different roles within the business should help you work together harmoniously.  

9. Set up clear business rules

We’ve discussed setting startup rules and agreeing on ground rules for working together, but there also needs to be business rules too. Then you need to stick to them.

10. Trust your spouse

When you have agreed to the rules, assigned roles and have started running a successful business with your spouse, you’ll need to trust each other and support them with the decisions they make – even if you don’t always agree with them.  

There will be times when you won’t accept.  

If your spouse repeatedly makes a mistake that is causing problems in the business, it’s important to discuss this privately away from any clients and colleagues.  

11. Create solid marriage and work boundaries

Once again the ground rules apply here.

If you are going to be running a successful business with your spouse, you are going to need to be diligent about the boundaries that separate your business and your marriage. Make the line of separation between them as clear as possible so that you can avoid any confusion.

The advantages of running a successful business with a spouse

While we have highlighted plenty of challenges that will occur when you are running a successful business with your spouse, there can be some fantastic benefits too. Benefits such as working alongside your husband or wife every day and creating synchronized schedules.

You’ll also be able to have the level of trust in your business partner that you will only get from running a business with your spouse.  

The post 11 Tips for Running a Successful Business with Your Spouse appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2EEkzik

5 Best Ways to Propose to a Girl and Pop the Big Question

So, it’s that time. You are thoroughly convinced she is the right one and ready to take it a notch higher. Lucky you. But, the big question is how and where are you going to do it.

It’s safe to say that every girl always dreams about two occasions in her life- her proposal and the wedding day. Of the two, she only has control about the wedding day because she contributes to planning the whole thing from point one to the last.

But, for the proposal, you are the planner and the executor. Before you start planning for the big day and buying a ring for it, make sure you’ve asked the parents of the girl for her hand in marriage.

The pressure that comes with wanting to pull the best proposal ever is real. You just don’t want your girl to have an ordinary proposal. You must show your game and give your girl something to brag about with her friends.

To pull one of the best proposals ever, your creativity must be unquestionable, and you must understand your girl perfectly well not to piss her off. This moment is critical to her as it’s the time she makes that decision to share her body, mind, soul, heart, and life with you for the rest of her life (hopefully).

And because women come in different shapes, ranging from the sentimental type, the nature lover, animal lover, to the boisterous type and more, your creativity game is surely at test now. She expects you to connect with her at a deeper level to know where she falls and coin your proposal along that interpretation.

So, here are our top 5 best ways to propose to a girl you love and want to share your life with. Don’t worry if we are too awesome, it’s to your good.

1. Be yourself and let the proposal reflect your personality

Guys, this is like the rule of the thumb. Girls read so much from the proposal, and you don’t want to let this chance fade off without making a personal statement.

This is your chance to be yourself and real. Don’t overdo the proposal. You’ll come out as trying too hard- which is a bad idea.

Make things simple and sweet. Be rational and follow what your gut is telling you. It’s the simple things that give a lasting memory. Go for it!

2. Rev up the romance by including candlelight

Listen, guys, the candlelit dinner proposal type is quite common, but you can give it a twist of your own. Dim the lights and light up the candles. This sets the stage for something extraordinary. You can never go wrong with candles, they just uniquely bring the romance.

Think of a few ways to spice up the occasion. If it’s a dinner setting, get some nice and cool music in the background. And it doesn’t have to be at home. You can book a special place and have them set it up for you with all your specifications.

If she loves some native flowers, go for them.

3. If you met in a really cool place, you already have a venue!

It’s unlikely that all through your dating period till this moment someone has not asked you about how and where you met. It’s because it always invites a special feeling and tells a lot about the two of you.

It’s even more fun and sweet if you make your proposal venue the place you first met.

Sometimes it doesn’t matter whether it’s in school or on the bus. If you can pull it off and make it memorable, go for it.

And you are lucky if you first met in a park, beach or at a particular corner in a restaurant or hotel.  You can simply recreate the moment and propose to her there.

4. Pick a special day (especially of hers)

Special days come in handy when deciding on when to propose. If you know a special day in her life, then it’s to your advantage.

Think of her birthday as the starting point. You can also think of her parent’s birthdays too. Or you can set the date commemorating an anniversary since you first met or a date similar to the day you first kissed. Or a certain anniversary since her parents exchanged vows (if both parents are alive).

Alternatively, you can go for the regular special calendar days such as valentines, Christmas Eve. This is a somewhat corny way to go about your proposal, but it’s romantic and worth some consideration.  

5. Or try a banner in a public place (reserved only for the bold men)

If you think you can pop the big question in public, then a banner would go a long way.

Think of all the creative ways you can use a banner to propose. You can try it outside her workplace if she loves her work and colleagues. Or, you can have it at the bus station or in a restaurant.

Here’s an example.

If you choose a restaurant, for example, have the banner with her nickname that only you use, with the words “will you marry me?” or “will you go with me to eternity?” placed above the inside of a restaurant exit (if you both have a favorite restaurant, the better). Talk to the management to decorate the restaurant with some romantic decorations and displays.

Invite her for dinner and be early to ensure the arrangement is complete.

Pick your favorite spot and make sure you are as far as possible to the exit or blocked from seeing the exit. Once you’ve had a nice, romantic dinner in the restaurant and it’s time to leave for home, let her lead the way. If she sees it midway before the exit, your day is complete. If she doesn’t, hint her to look up before reaching the restaurant and she will surely see it.

There you have it; our top 5 best ways to propose to a girl. Go ahead and pick your choice and make it awesome. We hope she says yes.

Adios.

The post 5 Best Ways to Propose to a Girl and Pop the Big Question appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2T3LhUN

How to Propose to Your Boyfriend and Factors to Consider

These days there is a steady increase in women who decide that they want to be the ones to propose to their boyfriend rather than the other way around.  Traditions are no longer set in stone, and when it comes to all things marriage, including the proposal, anything goes.

Which means that this non-traditional approach doesn’t have as many rules to follow as the traditional approach where a man proposes to the women, however, it’s still necessary to figure out how to propose to your boyfriend because it’s a serious matter, and there are a few ‘alternative’ considerations that you might need to make.  

Figuring out how to propose to your boyfriend might be unusual and open to a lot of creativity, but it still needs some careful planning to carry it off successfully.  

Here are some of the crucial factors that you need to consider when planning how to propose to your boyfriend.

The reasons why you propose

Before you go any further with learning how to propose to your boyfriend you first need to consider why you have decided to propose.  If you are proposing because it’s a fun and quirky thing to do and because you are ready to move to the next step that’s a perfectly good reason.  

However, many women do consider proposing to their boyfriend because they are tired of waiting for him to pop the question.  And if you are learning how to propose to your boyfriend for that reason, you need to stop for a moment and think about what you are doing.  

If you are at the point where it’s necessary for your boyfriend to make this commitment or you will consider leaving, then marriage might not be the right way to go around things.

Chances are there is more work that you both need to do on your relationship around commitment and expectations which will only spill into your marriage if you don’t address them.

Pre-marriage counseling will be a much cheaper and more proactive way to solve that problem than marriage, and you never know, after a few months of such counseling you might be happily engaged with both of you certain that it’s the right thing to do.  

Determine whether your boyfriend is ready for marriage

Learning how to propose to your boyfriend involves a lot of groundwork – but it’s the same the other way around too.  

One of the ways that you need to prepare is to determine whether your boyfriend is ready for marriage.  

To figure this out, consider whether you’ve discussed marriage and if he balked and ran for the hills as fast as he can or if he was receptive to the idea.

Is marriage something you have discussed together?  Is it even something he says he wants to do?

These are the things that you need to find out first.  If you haven’t broached the topic of marriage just yet, raise the question to see what side of the fence he’s on before you go any further with your plans to propose to your boyfriend.

Your man’s ego

Men naturally push things (no pun intended) they usually like to feel in control hence why so many happily married women are a dab hand at letting their husband think everything was his idea!  

So, an essential aspect of learning how to propose to your boyfriend is to consider his ego.  Is he going to feel delighted and inspired by you taking control? Will he find that sexy and alluring, or will it make him feel belittled, insecure and inadequate because he didn’t get to do the job he was ‘meant’ to do?  Only you know the answer to this question because only you know your boyfriend.

But remember this, a proposal should be a happy memory for both of you for years to come.  

If you feel as though your future husband will be embarrassed when the story of how you proposed is told, it might be worth re-considering proposing to your boyfriend.  

And instead, having a frank talk with him about the prospect of marriage.  If you think he’ll be cool with it though then it’s a green light from here!  

Asking for your boyfriend’s hand in marriage

This is a tricky consideration since we are going down the non-traditional route.  On the one hand, you need to consider that you won’t want to embarrass your boyfriend in front of his family by making him seem or feel weak in front of them (but you won’t if you have read and understood the tip above this one).  

But if you know that your boyfriend will be fine with your plan to propose to him, then it’s up to you what to do about this tradition.  

A cute idea though is to perhaps take his Mom out for lunch, talk to her about your plans and ask her for her approval.  She’ll probably be delighted that you asked!

What to do about the engagement ring

For him, you don’t need an engagement ring, but a token gift would be a sweet gesture, think of cufflinks, a chain, or something that he would cherish and feel special with.  Of course, if he wears rings, then nothing is stopping you from getting him one too.

But the bigger question here is what will you do about having an engagement ring?  

Chances are you are going to want one.  So you need to think about how you will get one.  One idea is to go together to shop for an engagement ring for you and make a special day of it after he has said yes.  

To kneel or not

Traditionally the guy kneels when he proposes, you’ll probably be wondering what you are going to do here.  Well, you can do as you please.

However, there’s something classy about not getting down on one knee.  Plus it’s going to be difficult if you are wearing high heels and a dress!  So think carefully before you decide.

The final thoughts on how to propose to your boyfriend include thinking about what to do if he says no – remember it doesn’t mean the relationship is over.  But it’s worth having a plan for how you will handle that. The remainder of the work you need to do to pull off your proposal to your boyfriend is all about planning something special, and the practicalities of what you might say and what you will do together afterward.  

And at the risk of sounding a little feminist to a non-traditionalist such as your good self but Women usually have the planning element in the bag, just do something you both will love and remember forever, and it will be perfect – even if you do propose by sticking magnets on the fridge freezer.

The post How to Propose to Your Boyfriend and Factors to Consider appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2BwrvtX

6 Different Ways to Propose That Are Perfect for All Couples

A marriage proposal is a once in a lifetime occurrence.

You will want to make your proposal count. There are many different ways to propose to your partner, some are sweet, others are fun or adventurous others nostalgic, and then there’s everything else in between!

 Here is a list of different ways to propose that inspired us  

1. Inspire nostalgia

As a couple, you’ve already created many memories together.

You’ll have had the fun, beautiful, romantic and bittersweet times that will never leave you. So, what would be a better way to propose than to bring some of those memories into a nostalgic proposal?

It sure is a romantic but different way to propose. But, how far you go with it will be entirely up to you though.  

● Create a mini-movie of your memories

You could create a mini-movie of your memories together and then propose at the end.

You could recreate your first holiday together physically, or your first date and find different ways to propose, using anything and everything you have experienced together in the past.

● Have friends call or text your partner

A fun way to incorporate some nostalgia is to have friends call or text your partner throughout the day to chat and then leave one word of the proposal either in code or as plain as day.

Each message or call received is another word of your proposal.

Make the friends call or text in order of when you met them or how important they are to you both.

Example – If somebody fixed you up when you first met, have them make the first call and make sure that you are the last one to leave a message, ideally in person with a ring ready.  

Then go out with everyone to celebrate in the evening.  

2. Take advantage of the holiday season

There are plenty of different ways to propose over the holidays too, whether that’s a seasonal holiday or a vacation. Either option provides lots of inspiration and unique but memorable moments and scenes to create an interesting and memorable proposal.  

Examples –

• Wrapping up the engagement ring to be opened on Christmas day.
• Head out ice skating and get down on one knee in the middle of the ice rink.
• If Halloween is your partner’s favorite holiday, throw a Halloween party and give her a spooky engagement surprise.  

3. Simple but perfect

Simple proposals are also hugely understated.  

Can you think of anything more romantic than your partner cooking you a romantic meal while asking you in private if you will marry them?It is an intimate moment right there that is often so overlooked.  

To add to the simple ideas, you could consider these different ways to propose simply.  

4. Leave a surprise message

There is a cute, fun, intimate and perfect way to propose.

Examples –

• Write in lipstick on the mirror
• Leave a note in your partner’s lunch pack
• Casually drop it in conversation (on purpose)
• Attach the ring and a note to your pet.  
• Hide the proposal in your partner’s breakfast bowl so when they have their breakfast they find it  

5. Get romantic

 

• Create a trail of flowers that lead to the ring  
• Take your partner out, sweep her off her feet and then propose at the end of it all.  
• Buy some chocolates and switch one chocolate out for the ring.  
• Write her a love note, a well-considered love note that really conveys how you feel about her and why you want to marry her and as she is reading it, get down on one knee and pop the question.  

6. Have fun

• Create a quiz, where the prize is the ring, or the clues to the quiz spell out your proposal
• Create a treasure hunt
• Blindfold your partner and lead her to a romantic location where you can propose, you could even create a picnic
• If you goof around together, turn the proposal into a joke, or a prank and at the end of the prank (not as part of it) propose to her
• Write your proposal in sand, snow, dirt or in the air with skywriting

There are so many different ways to propose. This list is just a small representation of the endless possibilities that are out there.  

The best advice we can give though is to make it personal by aligning your proposal to match her personality and both of your tastes.

Example –

If your partner hates the spotlight, it’s probably not a good idea to do a public proposal.  If however, she loves it, make sure that the light is shining brightly on her.

Don’t make your proposal all formal if that’s not how you generally interact with each other. Do it in your style as a couple, and it will be the most perfect way to propose plus she’ll be delighted that you put so much effort in.  

The post 6 Different Ways to Propose That Are Perfect for All Couples appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2QEbH2F

Classic 25th Wedding Anniversary Gifts to Suit All Tastes

Silver is the material traditionally used to represent 25 years of married life.  Which is why a 25th wedding anniversary is also called a ‘silver wedding anniversary.’  Even though silver is the material (or color) of the moment, it doesn’t mean that any 25th wedding anniversary gifts you buy have to be silver though.

Choosing a 25th wedding anniversary gift can be a challenge. What do you buy somebody who you’ve lived with, loved and committed to for twenty-five years?  And what do you buy a couple who has been married for 25 years that they don’t already have?

It’s not easy to think up good 25th wedding anniversary gifts, but we think we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best 25th wedding anniversary gift ideas that everyone will love.

25th Wedding anniversary gifts for your wife

1. A silver piece of jewelry

Let’s start with the most obvious type of 25th wedding anniversary gift that you can buy your Wife.  

Women love jewelry, and so you won’t go too far wrong with a piece of silver jewelry unless your wife prefers gold or some other precious metal.

 If that’s the case, she might like a silver keychain, a silver pop-socket for her phone or a silver pen.  

2. Other jewelry

Following on from the silver idea, any jewelry is going to be a good bet for a 25 wedding anniversary gift for your Wife as long as it’s according to her tastes.

3. Cashmere

Cashmere is always a luxury gift worthy of giving to someone you’ve loved for 25 years.  Just don’t go near the cashmere if your wife is vegan though.

4. Tech

Is there a tech item that your wife is waiting to buy, perhaps its an Ipad, a new phone, speakers or a Bluetooth headset, these are all great ideas for a 25th wedding anniversary gift although they won’t last forever, whereas a piece of jewelry will.  

5. Handbags, wallets, and shoes

Enough said! All women will love these as a gift, and they can always be special enough for a 25th wedding anniversary gift!

25th Wedding anniversary gifts for your husband

1. Silver jewelry

We appreciate that not all men like to wear jewelry, but since this is the traditional gift for a 25th wedding anniversary, it’s well worth considering.  

Maybe your husband would love a silver watch if your budget stretches to it, a chain or even a silver keyring.

2. The latest gadget

Most men have a list of gadgets they want to try out.

So why not surprise him with one of the gadgets that he’d like but probably would never buy for himself.  

It’s a great way to show that you listen to him and that you care.  

3. An adventure experience

This is a great 25th wedding anniversary gift idea for your husband especially if he has something that he’d like to try but never does, or if he’s an adrenaline junkie.  

4. A pampering experience

Is your husband more of the new age sort?  

If he is, why not treat him to a men’s grooming day where he has facials, shaves, haircuts, massages.  

You can either do this together or treat him to one which is explicitly focused on tending to men.  You might need to consider getting him and a friend the male-specific treat though so he’s on his own during the experience.  

For the couple

1. Silver gifts  

Once again silver is top of the list for 25th wedding anniversary gifts for couples.  

Think about a silver photo frame or trinket that they can keep in their home.  

They’ll make a unique gift especially if they are engraved.  Try to pick items that can blend in with their house though, so that if it’s not quite to their tastes, they will still use and enjoy them.  

2. Champagne

You can never go wrong with sending over a bottle of bubbly for a 25th wedding anniversary gift. They’ll enjoy celebrating together and toasting you in the process and you can never have too much fizz.

3. Personalized gifts

Here’s a 25th wedding anniversary gift which is beautiful and oh so simple.  A decorated chalkboard, which says ‘you make me believe in love’ which the couple can proudly hang in their homes.  

Attached to the back was a sweet note, acknowledging the importance of the date and who it was from.  

Other personalized gifts that are cute enough for a 25th wedding anniversary gifts are two spoons engraved with the saying ‘25 years and still spooning together’.  

It’s cute, personal but also not gimmicky – that’s the perfect type of 25th wedding anniversary gift don’t you think?

It is difficult to find a great 25th wedding anniversary gift, especially when you know others will also be buying the same kind of items.  But if you stay focused on finding something that represents the couple or person you are buying for and also your relationship to them, it won’t matter what the gift is. They’ll love the fact that you put so much thought in.  Even if you just invite the couple round to dinner or drinks at yours.

The post Classic 25th Wedding Anniversary Gifts to Suit All Tastes appeared first on Marriage.com Blog.

from Marriage.com Blog https://ift.tt/2CqRS67