Spring represents fresh new beginnings. It’s usually a time when the majority of us begin to declutter and spring clean our homes. We rid ourselves of the outdated to prepare for the brand-new, bright and colorful. Letting go of what’s just taking up space but not really adding any flair to the home or benefiting the family, makes sense. Typically, the items from our homes that we’re removing no longer fits or compliments us. The same can be said for marriage.

At some point, every year, couples should be reviewing their marriage and deciding which bad behaviors or negative ideas must be removed. Our relationships will not strive if we aren’t intentional about pointing out the things that are simply taking up space. Sometimes we don’t know how to release them. Once we’re clear on the reason a declutter is necessary, the process becomes easier. If certain things aren’t removed, there will be long term effects that damage the future of your marriage. Frequent bickering, poor communication and a lack of intimacy, are a few examples.

If you aren’t quite sure which area needs tidying up in your own relationship, here is the marriage declutter checklist for all couples.

Tidy up any resentment you may be holding on to. You might resent that your spouse seems to have less responsibility than you do in the home. The reality is, you have to ask for help when those feelings surface and not suffer in silence.

Tidy up any unforgiveness that remains. Forgiveness is the secret to marriage growth and transformation. If you desire your marriage to prosper, holding on to the past won’t allow you to do that. Think about the negative emotions it may be stirring up for you and how it’s causing you to treat your spouse. Release it, so you both can move forward.

Tidy up the company you keep. Anyone who speaks negatively about your spouse or your marriage must be directed to exit, stage left. There should be no place in your life for negativity.

Again couples, remember spring is the perfect time to declutter any thoughts that don’t appropriately serve your marriage. Getting rid of the old provides more space for the enjoyable.

BMWK, what would you add to the marriage declutter checklist?