

{"id":124458,"date":"2026-10-16T12:50:28","date_gmt":"2026-10-16T12:50:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=124458"},"modified":"2026-10-16T13:56:51","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T13:56:51","slug":"relationship-goals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/love\/relationship-goals\/","title":{"rendered":"Therapist Explains 8 Relationship Goals Every Happy Couple Has in Common"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-124468\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/2026-09-24-04-01-52-utc.jpg\" alt=\"Affectionate Couple Embracing and Looking Out a Window \" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every couple wants a happy, lasting relationship, but what does that actually look like on an ordinary Tuesday? Is it having fewer arguments, spending more time together, or simply knowing you&rsquo;re still on the same team when life gets difficult?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The truth is, healthy relationships aren&rsquo;t built on grand romantic gestures alone. They depend on everyday habits, honest conversations, and a willingness to keep growing together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this Marriage.com video featuring <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/us\/therapists\/marina-edelman-profile\"><b>Marina Edelman<\/b><\/a><b>, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with over 20 years of experience, we explore eight practical relationship goals that can help couples build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-are-relationship-goals-and-why-do-they-matter\"><\/span><b>What are relationship goals, and why do they matter?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relationship goals are shared intentions that help couples decide how they want to treat each other, grow together, and build their future.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some goals are practical, like saving for a home or discussing parenting responsibilities. Others focus on emotional needs, such as feeling heard, maintaining affection, or learning to disagree without hurting each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The importance of relationship goals lies in giving couples something to work toward together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, instead of vaguely promising to communicate better, you might agree to spend 15 minutes every evening talking without distractions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That&rsquo;s a goal you can actually practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you&rsquo;re newly dating, engaged, or have been married for decades, setting<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/realistic-relationship-goals\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">realistic relationship goals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help you identify what matters most and where your relationship could use more attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Watch-8-relationship-goals-that-help-couples-build-lasting-love\"><\/span><b>Watch: 8 relationship goals that help couples build lasting love<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/32Bsw6iwki4\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<div class=\"subscribeYT_highlight\"><div class=\"subscribe_channel\">\r\n            <div class=\"subscribe_text\">Join millions <span class=\"sub_text1\">building healthier, happier<\/span> <span class=\"sub_text2\"> relationships.<\/span><\/div>\r\n            <a class=\"subscribe-btn-in-content\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@Marriagedotcom?sub_confirmation=1\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/images\/youtube_icon_small.png\" class=\"icon-left\" alt=\"YouTube\">\r\n            <span>Subscribe<\/span>\r\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/images\/bell_icon_new.svg\" class=\"icon-right\" alt=\"Extra Icon\">\r\n            <\/a>\r\n        <\/div><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There isn&rsquo;t one perfect formula for a lasting relationship. Every couple brings different personalities, experiences, and expectations into their partnership.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Still, certain habits can help couples feel more connected and better equipped to handle life&rsquo;s challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In our expert-led video, we explore eight relationship goals across four important areas of a healthy partnership.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Stay genuinely curious about each other<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember when you first started dating and wanted to know everything about your partner?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You probably asked questions about their childhood, dreams, favorite memories, and random opinions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over time, those conversations can become less frequent. You start assuming you already know everything about each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But people change.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your partner might develop new interests, reconsider old ambitions, or see life differently than they did five years ago.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staying curious means continuing to discover who they are becoming.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask one question each week that isn&rsquo;t about work, chores, or responsibilities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Share something new you&rsquo;ve recently learned or experienced.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Listen without immediately offering advice or changing the subject.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A question to ask: &ldquo;What&rsquo;s something you&rsquo;ve been thinking about lately that we haven&rsquo;t talked about?&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Curiosity helps keep emotional connection alive, even when you&rsquo;ve been together for years.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Learn to repair after disagreements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Happy couples still argue. The difference often lies in how they handle what happens afterward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A disagreement about money, parenting, or household responsibilities doesn&rsquo;t have to turn into days of silence or resentment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning to repair after conflict means recognizing when a conversation has gone wrong and taking steps to reconnect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, that&rsquo;s as simple as saying, &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t handle that well. Can we try talking about it again?&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other times, it requires acknowledging hurt feelings, taking responsibility, and making a genuine change.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a short break when emotions become overwhelming.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acknowledge your part in the disagreement without adding excuses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask what would help both of you move forward.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For couples who struggle with recurring arguments, practicing<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/marriage-communication-exercises\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">communication exercises for couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may help make difficult conversations more manageable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember, repairing conflict isn&rsquo;t about pretending nothing happened. It&rsquo;s about addressing the problem while protecting the relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Support each other&rsquo;s personal ambitions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being in a committed relationship doesn&rsquo;t mean giving up your individual dreams.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One partner might want to change careers, return to school, start a business, or pursue a hobby that takes considerable time and energy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthy couple goals leave room for both people to pursue meaningful ambitions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This doesn&rsquo;t mean automatically agreeing with every decision. It means discussing how each person&rsquo;s goals fit into the life you&rsquo;re building together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your partner what personal goal currently matters most to them.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss practical ways you can support each other.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Celebrate progress, even when the achievement belongs to only one person.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, if your partner wants to take an evening course, you might discuss how to adjust household responsibilities temporarily.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supporting individual growth can help partners feel valued as people, not just for the roles they play in the relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Give each other room to change<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The person you married at 28 may not have exactly the same priorities at 45.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Career changes, parenthood, health challenges, and personal experiences can reshape how people think and what they need.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most overlooked long-term relationship goals is allowing your partner to evolve without treating every change as a threat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Perhaps your previously outgoing partner now prefers quieter weekends. Or someone who once prioritized career success wants more family time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of assuming something is wrong, try understanding what&rsquo;s behind the change.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk about how your priorities have shifted over the past year.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid using past preferences to dismiss current needs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss how you can adjust your routines while respecting both partners.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Growing together doesn&rsquo;t require becoming the same person. It means making space for two individuals to develop while maintaining their connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. Build shared financial goals<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Money conversations aren&rsquo;t always romantic, but they&rsquo;re an important part of building a future together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Different spending habits, savings priorities, or attitudes toward debt can create tension when couples avoid discussing them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shared financial goals help both partners understand what they&rsquo;re working toward and how they plan to get there.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These goals might include paying off debt, building emergency savings, planning vacations, or preparing for retirement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule a monthly conversation about finances.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identify one short-term and one long-term financial priority.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss spending decisions without criticizing each other&rsquo;s habits.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more practical guidance, explore<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/finance\/financial-goals-for-couples\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">financial goals for couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and ways to approach money decisions as a team.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The goal isn&rsquo;t necessarily to combine every dollar. It&rsquo;s to develop mutual understanding and financial expectations that feel fair to both partners.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. Get on the same page about major life decisions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need to have your entire future planned, but avoiding important conversations can create problems later.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Questions about children, career moves, caregiving responsibilities, or where to live can become significant sources of disagreement when partners make assumptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, one person might imagine eventually moving closer to family, while the other expects to stay in the same city permanently.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Neither preference is automatically wrong, but both deserve an honest conversation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss where you each see yourselves in five years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identify major decisions that require mutual agreement.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Revisit your plans when circumstances change.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These conversations are especially useful for engaged couples considering their long-term marriage goals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also explore<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/long-term-relationship-goals\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">long-term relationship goals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to better understand how shared expectations shape a partnership.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>7. Protect physical and emotional intimacy<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intimacy often changes as relationships move through different stages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The excitement of early dating may eventually give way to demanding careers, parenting responsibilities, or everyday exhaustion.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That doesn&rsquo;t mean intimacy has to disappear.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physical affection, emotional openness, quality time, and feeling understood can all contribute to closeness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For some couples, intimacy means spending uninterrupted time together. For others, it includes affectionate touch, meaningful conversations, or rebuilding sexual connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make time for regular moments of connection without phones.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk openly about what helps each person feel loved.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Express affection in ways that feel comfortable and welcome to both partners.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If emotional closeness has become difficult, these<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/emotional-intimacy\/exercises-for-building-emotional-intimacy\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">exercises for building emotional intimacy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offer additional ideas.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember that intimacy should never feel like an obligation. The aim is to understand each other&rsquo;s needs and create opportunities for genuine connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>8. Make your relationship an ongoing priority<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&rsquo;s easy to assume that once you&rsquo;re committed, the relationship will take care of itself.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But between careers, children, family obligations, and personal responsibilities, couples can gradually stop making intentional time for each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most meaningful healthy relationship goals is treating your partnership as something worth maintaining.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That doesn&rsquo;t require expensive dates or elaborate romantic plans.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, it means checking in after a difficult day, sharing household responsibilities, or choosing to spend a quiet evening together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try this:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set aside regular time to connect without discussing chores.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notice when your relationship has been taking a back seat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask each other what would help you feel more supported this month.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The strongest relationship goals are often the ones you can return to consistently, even during busy or stressful periods.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-set-relationship-goals-you%E2%80%99ll-actually-follow\"><\/span><b>How to set relationship goals you&rsquo;ll actually follow<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-124469\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/2026-09-22-18-22-25-utc.jpg\" alt=\"Man and Woman Conversing While Sitting on Stairs \" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making a list of couple goals is easy. Following through requires a little more thought.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of trying to improve everything at once, start with one or two areas where you both see room for growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&rsquo;s a simple framework you can use together:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<table id=\"tablepress-745\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-745\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Relationship goal<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Small action to try<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Better communication<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Have a 15-minute daily check-in<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Healthier conflict resolution<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Practice one repair statement after disagreements<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">More emotional intimacy<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Plan one distraction-free evening each week<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Financial teamwork<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Review shared financial priorities monthly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Personal growth<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Discuss and support one individual goal each<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-745 from cache --><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choose goals that are realistic for your circumstances. A couple raising young children may need a different approach from partners who have recently retired.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check in after a few weeks and discuss what&rsquo;s working, what feels difficult, and what needs adjusting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Progress matters more than getting everything right immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently-asked-questions-about-relationship-goals\"><\/span><b>Frequently asked questions about relationship goals<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<style>#sp-ea-124460 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-124460.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-124460.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-124460.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-124460.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-124460.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon.fa { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}<\/style><div id=\"sp-ea-124460\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ex-icon=\"fa-angle-up\" data-col-icon=\"fa-angle-down\"  data-ea-active=\"ea-click\"  data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"\" data-scroll-active-item=\"\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div class=\"ea-card ea-expand sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244600 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"true\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-up\"><\/i> What are the most important relationship goals for couples?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse collapsed show\" id=\"collapse1244600\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some important relationship goals include honest communication, emotional intimacy, mutual respect, healthy conflict resolution, and shared plans for the future. The priorities may vary depending on each couple's needs and circumstances.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244601 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-down\"><\/i> What are examples of healthy relationship goals?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse1244601\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthy relationship goals examples include spending quality time together, discussing finances openly, supporting personal ambitions, resolving disagreements respectfully, and maintaining affection. These goals work best when both partners agree on practical steps.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244602 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-down\"><\/i> How do you set realistic relationship goals?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse1244602\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start by discussing what each person wants to improve. Choose one or two specific goals, decide how you'll practice them, and review your progress regularly. Avoid setting expectations that depend entirely on one partner changing.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244603 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-down\"><\/i> What are good long-term relationship goals?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse1244603\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term relationship goals may include maintaining emotional closeness, planning financial security, supporting career changes, building family traditions, and adapting to different life stages together.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244604 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-down\"><\/i> Can relationship goals help a struggling marriage?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse1244604\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shared goals can help couples identify areas that need attention and create opportunities for better communication. However, goals alone may not resolve serious problems such as repeated betrayal, coercion, or ongoing harmful behavior. Professional support may be appropriate.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse1244605 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-angle-down\"><\/i> How often should couples review their relationship goals?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse1244605\" data-parent=#sp-ea-124460><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A monthly or quarterly check-in can be helpful, particularly during major life changes. The frequency matters less than creating opportunities for both partners to discuss their needs, expectations, and progress.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Building-a-relationship-that-keeps-growing\"><\/span><b>Building a relationship that keeps growing<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A lasting relationship isn&rsquo;t about meeting every goal perfectly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&rsquo;s about recognizing that both people will change, challenges will arise, and staying connected takes continued attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need to work on all eight relationship goals immediately. Choose one that feels important right now and start with a small, meaningful action.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more guidance, watch our Marriage.com video featuring Marina Edelman, LMFT, where we explore these eight relationship goals and how couples can put them into practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"About-our-featured-expert-Marina-Edelman-LMFT\"><\/span><b>About our featured expert: Marina Edelman, LMFT<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><!-- Marriage.com Author Box (Native HTML Disclosure - Pure WordPress Safe) --><\/p>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: flex-start; gap: 32px; background-color: #f8fafc; border: 1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius: 12px; padding: 32px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Open Sans', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, sans-serif; box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.03); margin: 24px auto;\">\n<p><!-- Left Side: Author Avatar --><\/p>\n<div style=\"flex-shrink: 0; text-align: center;\">\n<div style=\"width: 160px; height: 160px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 100%; border-radius: 50%; object-fit: cover; border: 4px solid #ffffff; box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.12);\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/1371261945.jpg\" alt=\"Marina Edelman, LMFT\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Right Side: Author Details --><\/p>\n<div style=\"flex-grow: 1;\">\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 10px;\">\n<h3 style=\"font-family: 'Playfair Display', Georgia, serif; font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #1a202c; margin: 0; line-height: 1.2;\">Marina Edelman, LMFT<\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-size: 15px; font-weight: 600; color: #4595cf; margin-top: 4px;\">Licensed Marriage &amp; Family Therapist<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size: 13px; color: #718096; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 12px;\">License #51009 &middot; State of California<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- Bio Content --><\/p>\n<div style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #4a5568; margin-bottom: 16px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">Marina Edelman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Westlake Village, California, with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Native Collapsible Block --><\/p>\n<details style=\"margin-top: 4px;\"><summary style=\"color: #4595cf; font-weight: 600; cursor: pointer; outline: none; margin-bottom: 8px;\">Read More&hellip;<\/summary><p style=\"margin: 8px 0;\">She is a Certified Level 3 Gottman Therapist specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, blended families, and high-conflict couples. Her therapeutic approach draws on the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).<\/p>\n<p style=\"margin: 8px 0 0 0;\">Marina collaborated with Marriage.com as a featured expert for the accompanying relationship goals video, sharing her professional insights on building healthier, more connected relationships.<\/p>\n<\/details><\/div>\n<p><!-- Profile Button --><\/p>\n<div style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; margin-top: 12px;\"><a style=\"background: #4595cf; border-radius: 50px; padding: 12px 28px; color: #ffffff !important; font-weight: 500; font-size: 16px; line-height: normal; display: inline-block; text-decoration: none; box-shadow: 0 2px 6px rgba(69, 149, 207, 0.3);\" href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/us\/therapists\/marina-edelman-profile\" target=\"_blank\">View Full Profile<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every couple wants a happy, lasting relationship, but what does that actually look like on an ordinary Tuesday? Is it having fewer arguments, spending more time together, or simply knowing you&rsquo;re still on the same team when life gets difficult? The truth is, healthy relationships aren&rsquo;t built on grand romantic gestures alone. They depend on everyday habits, honest conversations, and a willingness to keep growing together. In this Marriage.com video featuring Marina Edelman, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience, we explore eight practical relationship goals that can help couples build a stronger, more fulfilling <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1419,"featured_media":124468,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[2568],"class_list":["post-124458","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-love","tag-make-love-last","has_thumb"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/124458","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1419"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=124458"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/124458\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":124490,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/124458\/revisions\/124490"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/124468"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=124458"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=124458"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=124458"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}