Exercise Our+Shared+Vision
Exercise Our+Shared+Vision
Just as a vision and goals are important to our personal success, so is a shared vision important for the
success of your relationship. Although most couples share many of the same aspirations and desires, the
lack of a clear vision limits what they can achieve together. A shared vision gives your relationship
direction and meaning and shapes day-to-day actions. Go ahead and complete the four steps below.
Step One: Individual pondering
Ponder on the following ideas to stimulate your thoughts about what is important to you in your
relationship. This list is not comprehensive so please come up with other ideas. Jot down notes if you
desire.
How do you treat each other?
How do you communicate?
What do you do together?
What new adventures do you want to enjoy together?
How do you spend your free time?
What kinds of recreation or leisure activities do you enjoy?
How do you share your roles and responsibilities around your home?
What role does work play in your relationship?
How do you relate to your children?
How do you make decisions?
How do you resolve conflicts?
What special traditions and rituals do you have?
How do you express your faith and spirituality?
What is sex like?
What role do friends and family play in your lives?
Creating Our Relationship Vision (continued)
Step two: Individually define your ideal vision
Use the following guidelines to write your personal vision of a deeply satisfying love relationship.
• Write short sentences.
• Write in the present tense, as though already true.
• Use positive words.
• Include any aspects of your current relationship that you want to preserve.
• Add new qualities you would like to manifest in your relationship.
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Creating Our Relationship Vision (Continued)
Step Three: Share your lists.
Come together and take turns sharing your lists from step two, using these guidelines:
• Put a check mark in the left-hand column of any items that are similar on both lists. (It’s okay to
use different words as long as the ideas are the same.)
• Add items to your own list that you agree with but did not think of on your own.
• If you disagree with an item, that is okay, don’t add it to your list and don’t discuss it.
Vision