Now I must say that when you’re in the thick of it, everything seems impossible.

But as you know, nothing is impossible with God. And if you are willing and ready to take A.I.M., God will work on your spouse while you work on yourself.

You see, that’s the problem. Most people blame their spouses for the troubles in their marriage. Yet just as it takes two to tango, it takes two to get you where you are; good, bad, or ugly.

So you genuinely want to nurture hope in your marriage, you have to be willing to look in the mirror.

Because if not, you might as well turn off this episode and stop listening to me.

You need to do your part in order to nurture hope in your marriage.

So what can you do since you’re in it to win it?

The K.I.S.S. ~ Be in it to win it!

You have gotta be in it to win it. You have got to be drivin’ the boat, not just floating in the water. Because eventually, you’ll sink otherwise.

1. Lead by Example

When there are situations where one spouse appears less committed, it’s crucial to lead by example and demonstrate the qualities you desire in your marriage. By doing so, it allows you to make a positive impact while still respecting your partner’s journey.

a. Communicate with compassion: Enhance your communication skills by expressing your hopes, concerns, and desires with love and empathy. Show your commitment by listening actively. Respond thoughtfully to your spouse’s needs.

b. Foster personal growth: Focus on your own personal growth and development. By becoming the best version of yourself, you not only increase your confidence but also inspire your partner to embark on their own journey of self-improvement.

c. Show love and kindness: Even in the face of challenges, continue to demonstrate love, kindness, and gratitude. Small gestures, acts of service, and affectionate moments can reignite a spark and remind your partner of the beauty and potential of your relationship.

2. Seek Professional Support

When faced with a seemingly imbalanced level of commitment, seeking professional help can be a transformative step. A marriage counselor or therapist can provide guidance, tools, and strategies to navigate the challenges you may be facing. If you’re in the water, you need to know how to get back in the boat.

a. Encourage the idea of counseling: Approach the subject of counseling with sensitivity and grace. Express your willingness to make a positive change and emphasize the potential benefits that professional guidance can bring to both individuals and the relationship.

b. Attend counseling sessions individually: If your spouse remains hesitant to attend joint sessions, consider going for individual counseling to address your struggles, gain clarity, and develop strategies for coping with the situation. Individual growth can often spur positive change within the marriage.

c. Explore books and resources: Supplement professional counseling by reading books, listening to podcasts, or participating in online programs that focus on personal and relationship development. Share what you learn with your partner, creating opportunities for open and meaningful discussions.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

When faced with a challenging marriage dynamic, it’s important to prioritize self-care as a means of maintaining your own emotional and mental well-being. Taking care of yourself helps you approach the relationship with a calmer mindset and a renewed sense of hope.

a. Practice self-reflection and self-awareness: Regularly take time to reflect on your own feelings and emotions. Understand your own needs, triggers, and boundaries, as well as what you are willing to work through to preserve your marriage.

b. Engage in stress-relieving activities: Engage in activities that bring you joy, cultivate peace, and reduce stress levels. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time with friends, these activities will nurture your emotional well-being and provide you with the necessary strength to navigate challenges.

c. Set healthy boundaries: Establish and communicate healthy boundaries within the relationship. This will help protect your emotional well-being while fostering an environment for open communication and mutual respect.

Inspiration and Hope

While it may be challenging, remember that all hope is not lost. Many couples have experienced seasons where one partner was less invested initially, only to witness remarkable transformations in the future. So understand this…

– Change is possible: People can grow and evolve in unpredictable ways. By fostering an environment of love, acceptance, and support, your spouse may eventually undergo a positive transformation.

– Focus on your own growth: By prioritizing your personal development, you create a ripple effect that can inspire change in your spouse. Lead by example and allow your growth to ignite the spark of transformation within your marriage.

– Keep the lines of communication open: Continuously communicate your feelings, concerns, and hopes with your spouse. Honest and vulnerable conversations can be the catalyst for positive change.

Remember, each marriage is unique, and no situation is entirely hopeless. Hope is not lost in a day!

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“