How to Improve a Marriage? Give It a Tuneup

Ever wonder how to improve a marriage? A marriage program -- a form of group marriage counseling -- may be the answer. Read the Q&A below to find out how it can help your relationship.

QUESTION: My marriage is all right, but I think we have room for improvement. Would a marriage counseling program be helpful or do only people in crisis attend those kinds of programs?

ANSWER: I am glad you asked that question. Many people are under the false assumption that marriage programs are only for those in trouble.

Every marriage needs maintenance. It is difficult to keep anything in good working order without upkeep. Somehow we think our marriages will maintain themselves. Cars get tune-ups and people get physical checkups. A marriage needs an annual tuneup, too.

If a couple is going to make marriage a priority, that takes time and energy. A weekly date is vital to keeping love alive and thriving. Our relationship needs nurturing. We feed and water plants but somehow expect a marriage relationship to grow without any special care.

Every married person needs to ask the question, "What have I done for my marriage today?"

No one is perfect and no marriage is perfect. There is room for improvement in every relationship. It is a challenge to become the best spouse you can be. Taking time every year to learn new things about your relationship is essential to a healthy marriage.