The institution of marriage, arguably, is more complex and carries a higher weight of pressure in modern times as compared to older times. Relationships between partners are dynamic and contain several aspects, such as being romantic lovers, best friends, co-parents, and even business partners. Every couple in a happy marriage is built on a foundation of mutual understanding, which can only be reached by talking and listening. It may seem old-fashioned and conventional to meet once a week, but if you want to build long-lasting relationships, it’s important to do so. The concept is the discussion of various issues through a time-bound structure, trying to put some sense into things and co-partnering in an organised way. The whole idea behind this article is to start a discussion and try to normalise couples who have a weekly meeting to talk about.
Benefits of weekly couple meetings
Many people may be wondering what the point of having a scheduled meeting is when they can discuss anything at any time. What distinguishes these conversations from the couples’ regular weekly meetings? Well, the answer is that scheduled meetings are more in depth, where talks would be done on a priority basis in a formal environment. We sometimes put off conversations because the timing isn’t right or they’ve slipped our minds. The whole idea of holding weekly meetings is to reflect on such issues that are important but have not been discussed for various reasons. Normalizing such weekly meetings will boost the longevity of the relationship and also ensure it’s headed in the right direction.
How to conduct a weekly couple meeting
Here are some guidelines which couples should follow to have a relevant meeting:
Precise timing: Scheduling a meeting at the same time every week is an ideal way to conduct meetings. Having meetings at the same time every week will make it a habit. Although it is understandable that meetings do not always start on time, the majority of the time, if they are scheduled, they will produce results.
Only the two of them: The meeting should take place in a safe place, away from kids, so that the discussion can be calm and collected.
Less Distractions: The discussion should be conducted without distractions such as television, mobile phones, or other things, so as to capitalise on the time spent.
Taking notes: Managing money is a useful skill, and it would be smart to write down the important points so that even if someone forgets, the notes will help them remember what was talked about.
At least a half-hour meeting: Meetings should be at least for half an hour, as things require brainstorming, and providing at least half an hour will be productive.
Don’t overpower each other: Weekly meetings should be conducted in an open and liberal atmosphere. Both people in the couple should listen carefully to what the other person has to say and not try to talk over the other person.
Structuring weekly meetings into 4 parts:
Structuring weekly meetings into four parts will help plan better and more efficiently.
Finances: Finances are a contentious issue and often require keen planning. Finances should be discussed first, and both parties should diligently plan their expenses. They should discuss weekly progress and to-do lists to keep track of their finances, as it is an essential ingredient in things running smoothly. Finance is one part that can bring about passionate discussions and even heated arguments. Keeping track of progress through financial discussion and setting deadlines to complete unfinished tasks is an excellent way to do so.
Meal Planning: Meal planning should not be left solely to women in the household but should be based on the flexibility of working hours. Suppose a woman has a job; it will take a little more effort from her side to manage both jobs. The husband should be more compassionate in helping her out and dividing the tasks. Weekly discussions regarding meal planning will inevitably help the relationship grow even more.
Chores: You don’t have to talk about chores for which you’ve already established a routine and a division of duties that’s working well. Instead, discuss chores that aren’t getting done and are occasional rather than recurring. Volunteering to do things and minimising each other’s stress by taking up jobs is a good way to maintain a healthy relationship.
Weekly updates: Talking about progress in all dimensions and trying to catch up with deadlines will have good results. At every next meeting, review what got done, offer progress reports, discuss why undone tasks weren’t completed by the deadline, and set new goals and priorities for the coming week.
Bottom Line
Weekly couple meetings shouldn’t be seen as something trivial, but rather should be accepted, as they will help in the spiritual and physical growth of the relationship. Relationships can get complex with unexpected happenings and bad communication between the couples; weekly discussions are an ideal way to nurture relationships that will have a positive impact.