A healthy relationship with a significant other includes, and is nurtured through, “shoulder-to-shoulder” activities. Shoulder-to-shoulder, or “STS” can be any planned time that you work toward a common goal. It can be a fun project or one of those dreaded household tasks. Cleaning the garage, planting a garden, preparing a meal together, or even recreational time all become successful STS activities. Pick a project, set a beginning, and end time, and make it a priority on your calendar. STS activities strengthen the marriage relationship and become an enjoyable part of calendar discussions and planning.
Patti Hatton, MA, LPC