With resolutions front of mind as 2025 kicks off, one family expert is sharing helpful tips to strengthen your relationship in the new year.
Divorce and family attorney Dennis Vetrano Jr., who is also a relationship advice podcaster, spoke with ABC’s Good Morning America, offering five questions he says you should be asking your spouse.
1. “What can I do to help you?”
Vetrano said the simple act of asking this question will indicate that partners are “in tune” with one another. “Notice how hard they’re working. Notice what they bring to the table and say, ‘Hey, I’m your partner. I’m here to support you.'”
2. “Do you feel like you’re being heard?”
As relationships grow, the windows of time spent listening to one’s spouse can start to shrink. Checking in regularly can “make sure they understand that you’re listening to them on so many different levels,” according to Vetrano.
3. “Is there something I can do to give you some ‘me’ time?”
Vetrano emphasized the importance of time spent away from a spouse or significant other. “They need to know that they can step away,” said Vetrano.
4. “Do you feel appreciated?”
Understanding what your significant other is contributing to the relationship is paramount to that partner feeling valued. He said he has noticed in the divorce cases he has worked that a lack of appreciation was often at the root of a couple’s troubles.
5. “What’s your best date night?”
Vetrano noted this is a tougher question to answer and follow through with as relationships develop with age and family commitments. Asking this question can be beneficial for two reasons. First, one’s partner will feel listened to, and second, a couple might be inspired to actually execute the plan.