Dream Big Together

Pursue your passions without losing your partnership.

Marriage is a partnership—but it’s also a journey of two individuals with unique dreams. Thriving couples learn how to support personal passions while staying deeply connected.

Here are five quick strategies inspired by Ben and Malissa McKay’s story:

1. Build on Shared Values. A strong foundation makes space for individuality. When you know what matters most together—family, faith, connection—it’s easier to celebrate each other’s goals.

2. Embrace Each Other’s Dreams. You don’t have to share the same passion to share in the joy it brings your spouse. Ask questions. Celebrate milestones. Show them their dreams matter.

3. Keep Family Priorities in Focus. Use open communication and joint decision-making to make sure personal pursuits enhance, rather than compete with, family life.

4. Stay Flexible. Life throws curveballs—kids, job changes, unexpected shifts. Adjust timelines without abandoning your dreams.

5. Support Practically and Emotionally. Encourage each other when stress rises, but also find tangible ways to help—like covering childcare or handling logistics.

Action Tip:

Set aside 15 minutes this week to talk with your spouse about one personal goal each of you has. Ask:

• What excites you most about it?

• How can I support you?

• How does this fit with our shared priorities?

Small, intentional conversations like this can spark deeper connection and keep both individual growth and marital closeness alive.

Tune into Episodes 73 and 74 of Marriage IQ to learn more!

If you have missed other Marriage IQ Weekly Tip emails, here is a link to catch up on them!