I truly believe every couple should create a vision statement. Having a relationship vision statement gives you clarity around what kind of relationship you want to create with your partner and will encourage further engagement through more direction and focus.
Your vision statement is a positive belief guideline that is made up of your relationship needs, wants and goals that you aspire to have within your relationship. This vision is a point of reference you can tap into from time to time to see if your relationship aligns with your beliefs and values.
So why is it important to have a relationship vision statement?
A vision statement is your reference point, it brings direction and purpose to your relationship. It clarifies what you really want from a relationship, and it will make you accountable for your own actions and behaviours. We often replay a picture in our head of what we feel our relationship should look like, but we can lose sight of our vision when conflict arises or other life challenges come into play. Physically writing down your vision and checking into it from time to time, will help you to identify whether or not you are living true to your beliefs and your relationship aspirations.
One thing to remember…Your vision statement reflects your core values in your relationship and is your guiding beliefs that direct your words and actions. It is up to you to honour your vision statement and stay true to who you are by aligning your behaviour and actions accordingly.
Here are a couple of examples of a Relationship Vision statement
- My relationship vision is to be a family that encourages love for one another, respect, understanding, compassion and to feel comfortable to be vulnerable and communicate our feelings openly without fear of being judged or discounted.
- My relationship vision is to always have honesty with each other, commitment and acceptance for one another and of our differences. A relationship where we will show tolerance towards each other’s needs and commit to being fully present for one another. A relationship where we promise to listen even during difficult conversations and to always have each other’s back.
Now it’s your turn:
Think about what your relationship vision might be and then write it down You can do this activity on your own to create clarity for yourself. Or you can include your partner. Get your partner to write theirs. THEN… Openly discuss and incorporate your visions together to write a joint vision statement.
Follow up your Vision statement with your Mission statement: how you are going to implement your vision into your relationship? What changes are YOU going to make, that will align your behaviour with your values and beliefs within your relationship vision statement?
