Note: this is the final column in a five-part series focusing on topics that Nina and Paul Winans will cover at the Remodelers Advantage 2019 Couples Retreat Workshop February 7-8, 2019.

I have suggested to clients that writing a gratitude list is a wonderful exercise to do, not just at Thanksgiving, but any time of year. We have so much to be thankful for that we take for granted.

As business owners, a working couple can find themselves consumed by the business. Yes, their family gets attention, but the future of the couple is set aside. Weeks, months, and years pass. Either the business or the family are always the focus of the couples attention.

What about your future? How do you break out of those self-imposed constraints?

Set Goals
Take the time to talk about what goals you want to set. Start by thinking about goals that are important to each of you. Make your respective lists. Share the lists. See what crossover there is.

Agree upon the list of goals you will pursue together. Simply having done this will bring a shot of energy to you both going forward.

Set the Dates
Now, set dates for each of the goals. Dream and be realistic at the same time. Don’t limit yourself because of your current circumstances.

In our lives together, Nina and I have found that by breaking down big goals and setting a date for accomplishing parts of them brings joy and anticipation every day thereafter.

Here is an example: We wanted to travel internationally. We got married early and were focused on our family and the business for many years.

We set the goal that by our 25th anniversary we would travel internationally. One year before our 25th anniversary, we took a two-week trip to Paris and London. It was amazing! And we have never looked back since.

At this point, having been on all seven continents and visited almost 50 countries, we are still pursuing our dreams.

Personal goals and dates by when they are to be achieved make working in the business more compelling and fun—particularly when you are working together.

Try what I am suggesting. Start small. If it is travel, buy the tickets soon and schedule work around the time you will be gone. Doing so will make it so you have more fun at home and at work.