There is something strangely refreshing about the new year. Perhaps it’s the sense that time coheres into a neat box, or the psychological appeal of getting a brand-new start. Culturally, humans have an intuitive understanding that the new year is a time for stock-taking. In matters of the heart, this seasonal pause offers an opportunity to recalibrate with a spirit of intentionality. Couples that succeed are the ones that regularly have honest conversations.

These conversations are best had before your year formally begins so that you have a chance to shape the story. You don't have to be reactive to it. Here are four conversations for couples who want to go into 2026 with a fresh perspective. Think of them as your chance to close all of your tabs, clear your inbox, and organize your planner for January.

There is growing evidence that one of the most powerful things partners can do is pay attention to what went well, instead of focusing on what went wrong. There has long been an empirical base within positive psychology demonstrating that expressing gratitude for what’s working can build resilience and improve relationship satisfaction.

Importantly, experimental

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