The following is something you might consider trying out in your marriage to improve your communication with each other:

Several years ago McCall’s Magazine tried out an experiment with couples who were happily married, but they needed a boost in their relationship. It was what they called a “Relationship Makeover.” The experiment was a great success!

In this experiment:

The couples agreed to take the time they might have spent watching one television sitcom a day (which comes out to 22 minutes without commercials) and talk. During this time:

• They were to make eye contact and converse …

• There was to be no children in the room (it’s best to wait until they’re in bed) …

• There was to be no radio in the background …

… and of course, no television!

• There was to be no dinner and no dinner dishes …

• They were told to turn on the answering machine …

• They were to focus on what’s positive in their lives …

• This wasn’t to be a time to bring up past hurts.

• They were to do this for one month.

The couples admitted that it was a more rewarding time than they’d ever have dreamed possible!

They said that at first it was a bit awkward and they found themselves looking at the clock a lot, but after a while they were able to enjoy their time together like when they were dating.

It’s worth the time invested to see how this can build your own relationship!
We challenge you to try it for a month!

If you’re truly stumped about to what to talk about here are a few suggestions:

• Go into one of the sections of our web site and print up the document that contains “Thoughts” on that subject. Each date night choose a few of those quotes to discuss. Each of you will state whether you agree or disagree with the quote that was read and why you believe this way. The point is to talk to each other and learn each other’s veiw points.

• In the “Communication Tools” section click onto “Fishbowl Conversations” and print it out so you can spend time each night taking turns answering a few of the questions.

• In the “Communication Tools” section, click onto “Communication Questions to Take Your Marriage to Higher Levels” to print up and take turns asking each other a few questions each night.

• Take the quiz in the “Communication Tools” section together titled, “QUIZ: So You Know What the Bible Says About Marriage?”

• Go into the Resources part of the “Communication and Conflict” section to find Resources listed that you can purchase to help you in your conversation time with each other.