21 Jan Envision Together: Making Goals as a Couple by Elana Clark-Faler, LCSW

Do you and your partner have a vision together?  Please don’t assume you do.  It’s really important to discuss both your individual and couple goals.

I think it’s important to have a vision that you share with your partner.  Something both of you dream about, desire and want for each other.  It’s important to have your own personal goals and wants.  Sometimes folks assume they share the same goals, but they may be operating from unspoken agreements.  Many relationships operate on unspoken agreements and assumptions.  This behavior can cause a lot of confusion and frustration.

I think it’s important to have individuals write down their personal goals and visions.  Then discuss and write down a vision for your future together.  This might be scary to face, because what if you don’t share the same vision and goals as a relationship?

Don’t fear, because you can negotiate or work together to make a plan that works for both of you.  Here are some questions to discuss together as a couple:

1. What are your individual life purposes and goals?
2. What is your mission statement as a couple?
3. What is our common vision?
4. What things will it take to accomplish our vision or goals?
5. What are our values as a couple?
6. What skills can support us being a team?
7. How do we assist with meeting each other’s needs?
8. How do we want to serve in our community?

It can be helpful to share these answers with a counselor or therapist that can support both of you with negotiating and achieving your goals.