In 2015, my alma mater, the University of Florida, conducted a study about human interaction. The study found that people who encountered rude behavior at work were often quick to respond rudely back. That’s because many behaviors are contagious. Knowing this, what if we committed to modeling positive behaviors in our relationships instead of negative ones? How could that motivate others?
The perfect place to start is with our marriages. What if your relationship with your spouse were so encouraging, so inspiring, that it spurred people around you to improve their own relationships? This isn’t about trying to build the perfect marriage, but it is an idea for how to improve your marriage and, through it, the marriages around you. It’s about treating each other so well that others will want to copy what blesses your marriage. It doesn’t require monumental shifts. Just a few small things can get you motivating others today. Here are 3 moves that build an inspiring marriage.
1. PDA
When you’re together, connect physically. Public displays of affection signal to others that your love for your spouse is real and tells your husband or wife that you don’t care who knows it. I’m not saying to be inappropriate, but definitely hold hands, wrap your arms around each other while you walk, and just be flirtatious. Your PDA fortifies your own connection and can inspire others to be less nervous about what others think of theirs.
2. Uplifting Words When Apart
If you’re looking for ideas for how to improve your marriage, consider how you speak about your spouse. I do a lot of traveling for work. I have meetings with legislators and All Pro Dad and iMOM donors. When the subject of my wife comes up, I always try to speak highly of her. I brag on Susan. I praise her ability, contributions, and ideas. She’s important to me, and I want to be known as a husband who speaks well of my wife to others. Will this inspire others to talk about their spouses in the same way? I hope so.
3. Serving Together
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society cites a poll showing more than 80 percent of people who volunteered together reported having a better relationship because of the “unifying experience.” Serving together bonds you. So, find a shared passion and start volunteering with your spouse. Your relationship starts to flourish while doing a selfless activity. Serve at your kids’ school, church, neighborhood organization—anywhere! Serving together opens doors for growth as a team and couple.
What do other couples do that has inspired you, that you’d say is a good idea for how to improve your marriage? Share in a comment.
