Here is your step-by-step guide to getting the most out of this book:
1. Start with the prep week.
This is the week before you start the 21 projects. Use this week to complete the items below. Also, take a look at the Prep Week Checklist (found on page 38) to ensure you’re fully prepared to start the projects.
2. Read through all the projects.
This is your chance to get a feel for all 21 projects. Be sure to use this entire book—make notes and start to think about ways to tailor each project to your spouse.
3. Find another couple who wants to work through Happy Habits for Every Couple with you and will encourage you and hold you accountable.
It doesn’t matter if they’re phone friends, Internet buddies, or face-to-face friends you meet with at Starbucks down the street. Location is not important; consistency is. Figure out a time to spend together (after everyone has read through the book) to come up with a plan for when and how you’re going to do the projects.
4. Sign “Happy Habits for Every Couple Encouragement Covenant.”
You can find this on page 43.
5. Decide on a start date.
If you’re doing this with other couples (as a small group or as a church), someone has probably decided on a start date for you. If not, now is the time to make that decision. Mark it in bold on your calendar and set up an email reminder on your computer.
6. Look over the daily projects together and come up with a plan.
As a couple, decide how you’ll bless your marriage each day. I’ve provided a variety of ideas, but it’s up to you to decide how you’ll carry out each day’s project. Get creative and come up with a new and wonderful way to make your marriage rock.
For each project, write down in advance what you’re going to do for each day.
You’ll also need to make some specific plans along the way. Is there a night when you’ll need babysitting? Get on the phone now. Is there a special candy you can purchase only online and need to order now for next Saturday’s project? Order it in advance so you’ll be ready.
7. Share your project plan with your accountability partners.
We recommend that you make copies of your calendar to share with your accountability partners (you’ll find the “Project Planner” on page 215). That way, you can commit to pray for each other, as well as lend support on days that may be particularly challenging. Who knows, your partners may have some great, creative ideas to share.
If one of the projects doesn’t line up with your schedule, swap it for another day. If food does nothing for your husband, find another way to treat him. This is all about connecting with your man. If your wife hates gushy cards, find one that’s fun and flattering all at the same time. The purpose of Happy Habits for Every Couple is not to make you crazy, but to help you find new ways to bless and support your marriage. Just do something intentionally every day to accomplish that goal.