Are you on the tidying up kick?  I’ve always been on the tidying up kick so I’m a bit amused by all this hoopla about this new show that tells how to tidy up.  I do love the phrase, “Keep what brings you joy!” Pretty cool to think that you can find joy in things and only have what brings you joy in your life.  So, who’s done it? Who has rid themselves of all that evil in your life? Do you only have folded clothes? Did you donate a bunch of stuff that doesn’t bring you joy?  If you did, are you filled with joy now?

Umm, what’s missing from this picture? Let’s talk about how to bring joy to your relationship!

• Yes, it’s me not you – Next time you watch that show, go to that movie or anything, ask yourself if you want to do it or you’re doing it for your partner.  If it’s just for them, let’s redo this and find things that make you happy.

• You feel supported by household chores – Have you found a way to find peace with the laundry?  Do you enjoy sorting clothes? If the answer is big NO WAY, then hand that task off and find ones that you can handle.  There is so much to do, make sure you’re doing the ones that work for you.

• I am an extrovert/introvert – Which one are you?  If you are with someone who is the opposite of you (of course you are), you’re probably doing a lot of compromising on what brings you joy. Find things to do that make you happy.  Go to the concert or stay at home for the day. Don’t wait for your partner to bring you joy, figure it out together.

• Those kids are both of yours – Please split up parenting responsibilities.  Even better, have them do things on their own.  Children are supposed to be a joy, right? Let’s figure out a way to make them part of your joy.

I’m going to stop there because this is about your joy, not mine.  I really want to focus on the fact there are no rules here. Forget what someone is telling you to do and do what makes you happy.  There is “Couples Time” where you compromise and there is “YOU” time which means it’s all about you.

Find your joy in yourself and bring it to your relationship!!

Can’t wait to hear what brings you joy and if your partner is high or low on your joy list!