3415 Nurture What Matters

06/01/24 • 16 min

In the whirlwind of life’s responsibilities, it’s easy for the spark in a marriage to dim. For couples juggling the demands of life, the connection that once felt unbreakable can start to falter. So nurture what matters.

You understand the demands of raising children, pursuing careers, focusing on others, and growing their finances are some of the few things that can distract couples from each other.

Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

Here you said "I do," with the hopes of building a life together, but now the reality is that you are building a life, just not together (or so it seems).

These feelings are real and can affect your growth as a couple.

In fact, many find themselves asking, "Are we better together?"

I think most of us at the beginning of the honeymoon phase of marriage are enthusiastic about what it holds for us. Yet, when life happens, those enthusiastic dreams fade over time, eventually leaving them muted and sometimes permanently buried.

Why would you want the spark in your marriage to decline?
Why would you not give your best for your spouse?
Why would you give more to others than to the one you pledge to spend the rest of your life with?

If you find yourself feeling distant from your spouse, it may be time to refocus on what truly matters in your relationship.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Rediscover your connection!

When the closeness you once shared with your partner seems to be slipping away, it’s important to take proactive steps to nurture what truly matters.

So first, I want you to ask yourself, "What am I doing or NOT doing for my spouse?"

Keep everything in perspective and be real and raw. No more "well maybe"; it's YES or NO enthusiastically.

If you want to reignite the spark and nurture what matters, your enthusiasm to rediscover must be off the charts. So prepare your heart to do your part.

Here are three things you can do to reignite the flame:

1. Prioritize Quality Time

Find moments in your busy schedule to dedicate to each other without distractions. Schedule regular date nights or mini getaways to reconnect and strengthen your bond. Even simple gestures like cooking a meal together or taking a leisurely walk can help you feel more connected.

Example: “Let's make time each week for an evening walk, just the two of us, to talk and unwind from our hectic days,” suggests marriage expert Jimmy Evans.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

Set aside time to have meaningful conversations with your spouse. Share your feelings, concerns, and dreams with each other. Listening actively and empathetically can help bridge any emotional distance between you both.

Example: “Let's commit to having a weekly check-in where we share one thing we appreciate about each other and one thing we’d like to improve on in our marriage,” advises marriage coach Kristianne Wargo.

3. Show Appreciation and Gratitude

Expressing gratitude for your partner (in words and actions) and showing appreciation for the little things they do can go a long way in nurturing a loving relationship. Small gestures like leaving a heartfelt note, surprising them with their favorite treat, or simply saying “I love you” can make a big impact.

Example: “Let's make a conscious effort to show gratitude towards each other daily, whether through words, actions, or thoughtful gestures,” recommends relationship advisor Jimmy Evans.

Remember, where you invest your time and actions reflects what you value in your marriage. By nurturing what truly matters, you can reignite the flame and strengthen the foundation of your relationship.

"In the garden of marriage, the seeds of love must be nurtured daily to bloom into a flourishing partnership." ~ Kristianne Wargo

Remember, it’s never too late to prioritize your relationship and nurture what matters most!

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!! ! "

#RelationshipBuilders #CreateYourNow #LoveAndMarriage

🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163)

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You understand the demands of raising children, pursuing careers, focusing on others, and growing their finances are some of the few things that can distract couples from each other.

Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

Here you said "I do," with the hopes of building a life together, but now the reality is that you are building a life, just not together (or so it seems).

These feelings are real and can affect your growth as a couple.

In fact, many find themselves asking, "Are we better together?"

Why would you want the spark in your marriage to decline?
Why would you not give your best for your spouse?
Why would you give more to others than to the one you pledge to spend the rest of your life with?

If you find yourself feeling distant from your spouse, it may be time to refocus on what truly matters in your relationship.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Rediscover your connection!

When the closeness you once shared with your partner seems to be slipping away, it’s important to take proactive steps to nurture what truly matters.

So first, I want you to ask yourself, "What am I doing or NOT doing for my spouse?"

Keep everything in perspective and be real and raw. No more "well maybe"; it's YES or NO enthusiastically.

If you want to reignite the spark and nurture what matters, your enthusiasm to rediscover must be off the charts. So prepare your heart to do your part.

Here are three things you can do to reignite the flame:

1. Prioritize Quality Time

Example: “Let's make time each week for an evening walk, just the two of us, to talk and unwind from our hectic days,” suggests marriage expert Jimmy Evans.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

3. Show Appreciation and Gratitude

Example: “Let's make a conscious effort to show gratitude towards each other daily, whether through words, actions, or thoughtful gestures,” recommends relationship advisor Jimmy Evans.

"In the garden of marriage, the seeds of love must be nurtured daily to bloom into a flourishing partnership." ~ Kristianne Wargo

Remember, it’s never too late to prioritize your relationship and nurture what matters most!

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!! ! "

#RelationshipBuilders #CreateYourNow #LoveAndMarriage

🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

...

Previous Episode

3414 What Habits Are You Encouraging For Your Child?

As parents, we can be too quick to assume that our actions have no lasting impact. However, what you teach your kids, through words or actions, leaves a lasting impression. What habits are you encouraging for your child?

Dr. Kevin Leman said, "Don’t start habits that you don’t want to have continue throughout your child’s college and graduate years."

Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

How do you lead your children, regardless of age?

Are you one who teases more than praises?
Are you one who puts down rather than lifts up?
Are you one who plays hardball more than lending an ear?
Are you one who puts yourself first instead of your child's best interest?
Are you one who the worst before you expect the best?

Parenting is not easy. And neither is living. But you have to step up to the plate if you are going to do both well.

Now, maybe you're thinking that the goal here with children is to create a happy child.

Dr. Leman says, "If you’re a young parent today and your goal is to create a happy child, we should all bow our heads and pray for you now, because it’s gonna be disastrous."

There are many times during your child's rearing years that they need to feel unhappy; they need to lose and come in second. They need to fail at something they worked hard for. They need to understand the consequences or their actions and words, whether good or bad. And if that means feeling unhappy, let those bells ring.

One thing parents try and do is to "make" your child do something. A lot of people might use the word "control". Quite frankly, you cannot make your child do anything.

If you are grocery shopping, and all of a sudden your child asks for something and you respond with a, "No, put it back.", you might feel the wrath of your child not getting their own way.

Let the meltdown occur.

Instead of looking at raising kids from a "control" aspect, think of it as training. You are training up a child to become a productive adult.

All the more reason to encourage habits you want your child to continue through college and graduate years.

So how can we as parents encourage positive habits that will guide our children?

The K.I.S.S. ~ Train them up!

1. Lead By Example

Children are like sponges, absorbing everything around them. It is essential for parents to exemplify the values and behaviors they wish to instill in their children. Whether it's demonstrating kindness, perseverance, or a strong work ethic, children learn best through observation.

Dr. Kevin Leman emphasizes the importance of parental modeling, stating, "Your kids are watching you - and learning from you."

2. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Teach your children the power of positivity and resilience through fostering a growth mindset. Encourage them to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and persist in the face of obstacles. By praising effort and progress rather than just results, you can help cultivate a mindset that sets your child up for success in all areas of their lives.

"Encouraging a growth mindset in your child will empower them to conquer challenges and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination." ~ Kristianne Wargo

3. Establish Consistent Routines

Consistency is key when it comes to forming habits. By establishing regular routines, such as bedtime rituals, study schedules, or family meal times, parents can create a sense of stability and security for their children. These routines promote discipline, strengthen family bonds, and provide a sense of belonging.

Dr. Kevin Leman affirms the significance of routines, "Routines give children the security of knowing what to expect and help them feel safe and grounded."

"The habits you encourage in your children today will shape the adults they become tomorrow." ~ Kristianne Wargo

By leading by example, promoting a growth mindset, and establishing consistent routines, parents can empower their children to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.

Remember, the little seeds of habits we sow today will blossom into the future our children inherit.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!! ! "

#ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent

🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

TAKE A.I.M. ~...

Next Episode

3416 What Is In Your Heart?

A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. ~ Luke 6:45 NLT

In the depth of our being lies the essence of who we are - our heart, the very source of our thoughts, emotions, and intentions.

Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

It's days like this that we set aside time to look within, to reflect on what you are doing well and what needs to change.

Maybe you have noticed you are a little more agitated and short with your family.
Maybe you are more fussy than optimistic.
Maybe you are feeling drained and just want to challenge people with your words because you can.

When we come to the realization that our hearts may be inclined towards negativity or weakness, why do we keep trying to do life by ourselves.

This is a reminder of the transformative work that can be done through Jesus Christ if we let Him. It takes courage to confront our shortcomings and acknowledge the areas where we need growth and renewal. But when we have the courage to be real and raw with ourselves, then that's the first step towards healing and restoration.

Scripture reminds us in Ezekiel 36:26, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh."

This promise signifies the profound change that is possible when we surrender our hearts to God and invite His grace to work within us.

But here's the thing-- You have to want to surrender. You have to want God's grace. You have to want God to work within you.

The K.I.S.S. ~ What is in your heart!

In times of struggle and moments of weakness, it is vital to lean on God's promises and draw strength from His Word.

Romans 12:2 encourages us, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

"In the journey of faith, our hearts may falter, but in Christ, we find the strength to rise again, renewed and restored." ~ Kristianne Wargo

This journey is not one of perfection but of perseverance, trusting that God's work within us is continuous and life-transforming.

What is in your heart?

Do you need to call on God to change the things that come out of your mouth? If you do believe that you are stuck in a place of disbelief and wondering what God can do, don't hesitate to ask Him. Ask. Seek. And knock.

7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." ~ Matthew 7:7

God does care about your vocabulary. God does care about your perspective. God does care about your heart. But do you?

Do you really want to make the shift and change what is not working?

Only you know the real truth.

May you take comfort in the fact that your weaknesses are opportunities for God's strength to shine through.

Embrace the journey of growth and restoration, knowing that your heart, when surrendered to God, can bear fruits of love, and grace-- transformation beyond measure.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!! ! "

#SweetSpirit #CreateYourNow #SoulfulSunday

🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co

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