The value of proficiency means an expert; good at; skilled; fluent; or practiced. So what exactly does it take to be an expert on the subject of marriage? At what point can a husband or wife claim to be skilled in marriage? Do you need to practice for 10 years before you can claim to…
Note: This blog post also appears on Leadership Couples. A number of months ago I had the privilege of interviewing a wonderful couple with an amazing story. It’s a beautiful story of redemption and restoration. Imagine growing up in an environment where your father is an alcoholic and a lousy role model. When you’re 11…
The value of peace means harmonious relations; freedom from disputes. Marriage Questions: Have you clearly defined what peace looks like for you and your spouse? What one thing can restore peace with your spouse like no other? Why that one? When you desire peace, what do you value most from your spouse? Have you told…
The original version of this was posted on Leadership Couples, written by my wife Lori. This speaks to the differentiating value of Adventure, which means a wild and exciting undertaking; or risky activities. If you are ever feeling uncertain or ill equipped to handle your mission – from leading a youth group to leading your…
The value of relaxation means a feeling of refreshing tranquility and an absence of tension or worry. Marriage Questions: What’s the mental state you need to be in to fully enjoy a relaxing with your spouse? When is the best time of the week for you and your spouse to focus on relaxing together? What…
Note: This blog post also appears on Leadership Couples. Recently, Lori and I watched Oprah Winfrey’s interview with Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, the creators and producers of the TV miniseries The Bible. Since the 5-week series aired in March 2013, over 100 million people have already watched it. Oprah suggested that over 1 billion people…
The value of autonomy means free from external control and constraint; self-governing. Marriage Questions: Who has influence upon your marriage, outside of your spouse, and why? When thinking about major decisions, do you always consider your spouse? What does “two shall become one” mean to you and your spouse? When is the next time just…
Dan Reiland produces an excellent newsletter called “The Pastor’s Coach” (you can sign up for it here). In a recent edition, Dan wrote about what people want at work, specifically relating it to church leaders and staff members. His unique insights seemed very relevant to leadership couples – a husband and wife team who work…
The value of faithfulness means resolute in allegiance or affection; loyal and steadfast following. Marriage Questions: What does resolute in allegiance mean to you? How do you know when you are being loyal and steadfast? Who do you know that has demonstrated loyalty in their marriage in spite of all odds? 3 Features of Faithfulness…
TV pitchman Billy Mays was exuberant. Motivational speaker Tony Robbins is exuberant. Lots of people involved in direct selling are filled with exuberance. As a differentiating value, Exuberance means overflowing with eager enjoyment or approval; or joyful enthusiasm. Those who really live this value (or have this ‘gene’) are exuberant about life. Now, let’s separate…
I write about differentiating values and their impact on leadership, marketing, and marriage - focused on couples in business together. Read more about Robert.
