How to improve your relationships in the New Year

SALT LAKE CITY — As the New Year approaches, you may find yourself deciding what resolutions you’ll make. 

If you’re looking to improve your relationships in 2023, David Schramm, Utah State University Extension family life specialist, has four tips to help you become a better partner or spouse. 

Schramm suggests committing to more fun and adventure. 

It isn’t uncommon for couples to fall into ruts or routines. However, planning an event or activity to look forward to this coming year can help keep your relationship stay lively. 

Next, ensure you’re committing to more connection, according to Schramm. 

You may become more critical in your relationship as time goes on. Schramm says this is due to how comfortable and casual people become with each other. 

Minimizing distractions, such as cell phones, can help. Other ways to commit more to connection are eating with your spouse or partner, expressing appreciation, doing random acts of kindness, and checking in more frequently. 

Another tip from Schramm is to commit to more understanding and less conflict. 

“It may be leaving a few hurtful words left unsaid, being less reactive and more responsive, or working to monitor your temper, tongue, or tone,” says Schramm. 

By dropping grudges, being grateful, and being quick to forgive, you’ll be happier in your relationship. 

The last advice Schramm offers is to have complete financial fidelity with your partner or spouse. Ensure you disclose all transactions so trust isn’t broken. 

“When you both know where your money goes, it can create a feeling of peace and openness to more connection,” says Schramm. 

Furthermore, Schramm says to find time monthly to go over finances, reconcile accounts, and budget for purchases.

Related reading:

• Financial infidelity: What does the Utah data look like?
• Couples across the world using Utah County Clerk’s Office to get married