activity / idea
Do at least one off-the-beaten-path, fun activity. Ideas:

• Nerf war.
• Finger painting each other in the shower.
• Try a new restaurant with foreign food and atmosphere.
• Place phones in a basket or bowl upon entering house.
• Close the bedroom door and invite your spouse to dance.

suggested time range
Once monthly

goal
Create fun, varied memories while keeping boredom at bay.

activity / idea
Create endurance for the sake of your spouse by stretching yourself one step further than is easy. Ideas:

• Initiate sex or try something new.
• Give a massage when you’re tired.
• Listen to your spouse when they’re not making sense, are overemotional, or are babbling a bit.
• Allow his or her parenting style to travel a bit beyond your comfort zone.
• Forbid your insecurity from taking over.
• Choose not to pigeonhole your spouse, seeing them instead as capable of change.

suggested time range
Once weekly, minimum, for a lifetime

goal
Continue to lay down your life for your spouse.

activity / idea
Set a pattern of praying together regularly. Ideas:

• Before bed.
• Before work.
• When you get up in the morning, before you start your day.
• About something you’ve just discussed, or plan to

suggested time range
Daily

goal
Strengthen your marriage by approaching God together as husband and wife.

activity / idea
Have your spouse’s back. How can you protect him or her? Ideas:

• From overly needy kids or kids in conflict (“Can you solve this problem on your own, buddy?”).
• From letting his or her work wins/losses dictate his or her identity. Remind your mate that they’re more than what they do.
• From an overreaching schedule. (“I would love you to have more white space on this calendar. Is there one thing you could say no to?”).

suggested time range
5-10 minutes, repeated periodically

goal
Run some interference for your weary ally.