5 things EVERY married couple should do (but most don’t)

5 things EVERY married couple should do (but most don’t) March 15, 2016

couple smiling sunglasses

I often write about the things that a married couple needs to do to strengthen their relationship with each other, but this particular list is going to be a bit different. While these tasks can certainly strengthen your relationship, they’re more aimed and protecting your children and your legacy. Sadly, most married couples aren’t doing everything on this list, but making these a priority could have a massive impact (especially for couples who have children).

EVERY married couple should…

1.Set up a will that clearly outlines child custody, asset allocation and final wishes.

Both my brothers are lawyers, so I got a head start with this one, but you don’t need lawyer brothers up a will. Sites like LegalZoom and others can walk you through the process simply. Even typing up something very basic and signing it and having someone notarize it could do the trick. If you don’t have anything in place (which happens often), it can create massive headaches and unnecessary confusion for your loved ones after you’re gone.

2. Set up a retirement plan.

Financial planning sounds about as fun to me as getting a root canal at the dentist, but taking some time to do it will give you peace of mind and financial freedom in your future. It’s also much easier than you’re probably thinking. Some great resources to help you get started improving your current and future financial situation include DaveRamsey.com, the True Stewardship Show with Chris Brown and the bestselling new book “Retire Inspired” by Chris Hogan.

3. Invest in causes that will outlive you.

With your time and your money, I encourage you to look for ways to invest into ministries, causes and relationships that will have a positive impact after you’ve gone onto heaven.

Great marriages don't happen by luck or accident Dave Willis quote davewillis.org

4. Work to heal broken relationships.

As a pastor, I spend time with people at the end of their lives. When you and I get to our “deathbed” someday, all of our greatest joys and all of our greatest regrets will be the results of our relationships. Don’t wait until then to realize that relationships are what matter most. If your relationship with God, your relationship with your kids or your relationship with a loved one is broken, please do everything in your power to bring healing to it.

5. Do those things you’ve always dreamed of doing “someday”

“Someday” is a dangerous word, because it allows us to hit the “snooze button” on our dreams. Start being intentional about doing those “someday” dreams now. If we wait too long, we’ll get to the end of our journey with big regrets instead of big memories. Seize the moment!

For more tools to help you build a rock-solid marriage, check out my new book The Seven Laws of Love and you can also download our “MarriageApp” on iTunes (a Facebook login is required to use the app).

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