5 Conversation Starters To Revive Your Relationship...


If saving your marriage is at the top of your priority list, there's one thing you really need to focus on: understanding what matters most to your spouse.

That may sound simple, but sometimes the most important things get lost in the noise of everyday life.

 

One of the best ways to truly connect is by asking your spouse the right questions. These aren't questions about what's wrong or what needs to be “fixed” — these are the kinds of questions that open up honest, heartfelt conversations and create real emotional connection.

 

I've put together five questions to help you tap into what's most important to your partner right now.

 

But before I dive in, there's a big disclaimer I need to share: If your spouse won't answer these questions (or even gets defensive), it could be a sign that their own pain is blocking them from being able to see your relationship clearly. This can make things harder, and it's something that needs extra care.

 

If that's the case, reply to this email and I'll send you my best suggestions of how to get them back to the table.

 

Now, let's get to the 5 questions that could make all the difference.


Question 1:

What's one memory from our relationship that makes you smile just thinking about it?

By asking this, you'll help your spouse reconnect with the positive, nostalgic moments in your relationship. This sets the tone for a constructive, hopeful conversation, and gently reminds them of what's at stake if things don't improve.

Question 2:

If we could design our dream relationship together, what would it look like?

This is a future-focused question that helps shift the conversation from problems to possibilities. When you create a vision for your relationship together, you're building something you both want to work toward. It fosters teamwork and strengthens your bond.

Question 3:

What's something I could do differently that would make you feel more heard or understood?

This question shows that you're willing to be vulnerable and open to feedback. It lets your partner know that you value their perspective and are committed to doing better — and who doesn't want that in a relationship?

Question 4:

What's one thing you've been holding back that you wish I'd understand about how you're feeling?

Sometimes, the most important feelings get stuck. This question gives your spouse the space to open up and share what's been on their mind. It's an invitation for emotional connection, and it'll help you understand what's really going on inside.

Question 5:

What do you think it would take for us to become the best team we can be?

Your relationship is a partnership, and this question reminds your spouse of that. It invites them to see your marriage as a team effort, which is essential for working through any challenges together.


These questions aren't a magic fix for everything. But they'll get the conversation started. If you ask them with sincerity, patience, and an open heart, you might just find that your spouse becomes more open and engaged in the process of strengthening your relationship.

 

Remember: It's all about building a foundation of trust, empathy, and shared goals. That's where the real work happens.

In solutions and strength,

Jonathan


P.S. If you're struggling with a reluctant spouse, I totally get it. It breaks my heart when I hear about couples who are stuck because one partner just isn't ready to talk. If that's where you're at, send me an email back and ask about next steps. You can work through this — together.

P.P.S. If these questions went well and you'd like to dive even deeper into improving your relationship, now's a great time to sign up for my DIY Relationship Reboot. For a limited time, I'm offering spots in my Chosen & Cherished Club, where you get weekly group coaching calls plus a bunch of personalized bonuses along with the DIY video course - it's $2,750 of value for just $300! 


If you're interested, click here to find out all the details.


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Jonathan Van Viegen is a couples therapist and relationship coach with over 10 years of experience helping couples rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen connection. Known for his direct, no-nonsense style, he’s a trusted voice on relationships and a frequent guest on podcasts and media.