BY SHELA DEAN
Whether married or single, celebrating leads to greater happiness. And congratulating GRAND Magazine on its 10th Anniversary creates the perfect occasion to think about how we can better celebrate our marriages and our lives.
As a relationship coach, I’ve learned that most people step up for the big events, celebrating the day someone receives a PhD or finally earns a big promotion or experiences the joy of becoming a grandparent. However, most days are a string of little, often humdrum, events and it’s how those are celebrated that can deepen and strengthen your relationship.
It’s also my experience, as a coach, that couples who find reasons to celebrate each other and their relationship are among the happiest couples. It’s a no-brainer—and expected—that you’ll celebrate anniversaries and birthdays; and it’s nice to receive red roses or boxers with tiny cupids on them on Valentine’s Day, but does it mean as much as we’re programmed to believe? Couples often find that celebrating everyday events truly enhances their mutual happiness.
It’s a simple equation: When you look for things to celebrate, you are focusing on positive experiences. Did he slide into home base? Cheer loudly and brag about your man on Facebook®. Did she earn a nice compliment from her boss? Bust out the champagne. Did he program the universal remote? Give him a high five and a kiss. Was she kind and still smiling after an awkward lunch with your mother? Treat her to a relaxing spa treatment. You get the idea, right? It’s also good to celebrate your everyday events with friends, and/or by treating yourself to something special.
Celebrate red-letter days, but also celebrate small, everyday things. The day you hiked into the hills, paused to rest under a tree, and made the decision to start a family. The day you bought your first home. The day you took the risk to go into business for yourself. It doesn’t matter if you can’t recall the exact date. Think about the things, big and small, that mean something to you. Then, just pick a date, celebrate, and watch your happiness grow.
Would you like to win a copy of Shela Dean’s book, ReDate Your Mate? Just click here – provide your name and email and you will be entered for a chance to win one.
Shela Dean is a relationship coach, speaker, and the author of Frequent Foreplay Miles: Your Ticket to Total Intimacy and ReDate Your Mate: 4 Steps to Falling in Love All Over Again.