Why make resolutions together in 2026
Many of us make resolutions in January; from shedding those last few pounds to learning a new skill – but actually a new year also offers a fresh reset for couples too. When you and your partner set shared intentions, you’re not just working on yourselves individually; you’re investing in your relationship. Research shows that couples who plan together are more likely to stay aligned, feel supported, and develop stronger habits.
Making resolutions together turns “my goals” into “our goals.” It creates more buy-in, accountability, and a sense of partnership right from day one.
Key areas to focus on
Here are five areas that make great foundations for your 2026 resolutions, along with examples and simple ways to make them stick.
1. Quality time and novelty
Example: “We’ll do one new thing together every month.”
Why it matters: Novel experiences help relationships feel fresh and exciting. They trigger dopamine and build shared memories.
Tip: Mix big and small. Try a new coffee shop, take a class, or plan a mini day trip.
2. Communication and conflict style
Example: “We’ll use ‘I feel’ statements instead of ‘You did’ when discussing issues.”
Why it matters: How you communicate matters more than how often you argue. Respectful, fair conversations build long-term trust.
Tip: Choose a “pause” word when emotions rise so you can take a breath and reset instead of escalating.
3. Health and well-being as a couple
Example: “We’ll take an evening walk together three times a week.”
Why it matters: Your habits influence each other. Shared wellness goals strengthen your physical and emotional connection.
Tip: Start small. It’s better to succeed consistently at something realistic than burn out on a big plan.
4. Gratitude and emotional connection
Example: “Each week, we’ll share one thing we appreciated about each other.”
Why it matters: Regular appreciation keeps positivity high and prevents taking each other for granted.
Tip: Set a reminder or jot down gratitude notes in a shared app so it becomes a natural ritual.
5. Shared growth and future vision
Example: “We’ll learn something new together in 2026.” or “We’ll review our goals every quarter.”
Why it matters: Having a shared vision reminds you that you’re moving forward as a team.
Tip: Schedule a relaxed planning night to dream, plan, and set intentions for the months ahead.
Making the resolutions real
Choose resolutions together. Each of you brings a few ideas, and you pick the ones that excite you both.
Be specific. Replace “communicate better” with “have a 10-minute check-in every Sunday.”
Track your progress. Use a shared note, list, or Cupla event to record wins and milestones.
Be flexible and forgiving. If you miss a week, it’s not failure – it’s feedback.
Revisit mid-year. Reflect on what’s working and what needs adjusting.
Sample resolutions you can adapt
- We’ll try one new experience or adventure every month.
- We’ll have a tech-free evening every Tuesday from 7 pm to 9 pm.
- We’ll share something we appreciate about each other three times a week.
- We’ll walk or move together four times a week.
- We’ll schedule a quarterly “relationship check-in” to talk about goals, finances, and feelings.
- We’ll learn something new together this year – a class, hobby, or language.
- We’ll fight fair and agree to pause and revisit within 24 hours if things get tense.
Final thought
2026 doesn’t have to be just another year. It can be the year you grow stronger, laugh more, and feel even closer. When your resolutions are shared and intentional, they become more than goals – they become rituals of connection that carry your relationship forward. Now is the perfect time to create a list in Cupla of resolutions you want to make with your partner.
