I found an article about what makes a happy marriage that has some insights that will be helpful in any relationship. One thing it mentions is that to have a strong relationship you must give up:

• Being right
• Controlling another person (this is not Christ’s way, but another’s)
• Unbridled self-expression
• Retaliation
• Withdrawing

I have had the wild ride when it comes to relationships! My ex-boyfriend got into unbridled self-expression and killed the relationship. He detailed four things he wanted me to change - in vivid detail. It was really critical and it left me in shock.

For example, he said I had oily skin!! Now, first I live in Utah, a dry climate that sends me running for the lotion and lip balm. Second, I actually have normal to dry skin. I guess that microderm face treatment I got made my skin a bit too smooth.

For the New Year let’s not focus on how someone can meet our expectations. Instead let’s focus on our relationship skills and what we can do to improve.