The phrase “teamwork makes the dream work,” may sound cliche, but it certainly hits the mark when talking about health and relationships. In a recent episode of the Balls Deep podcast, Dr. Joe Pazona and Cat Williams explain how to efficiently work out the health journey details with your partner and how this leads to forming better habits and improved communication, ultimately having a positive impact in life. Here are our top tips to strengthen your relationship with your partner:
1. Find Your Why—Together
With any meaningful change comes the question, 'why?' Dr. Pazona states that if there’s little to no context tied to a person’s health goals, those targets will shatter sooner or later. Perhaps your why is being able to engage and play with your children for years to come, or maybe simply having an improved bodily and mental experience. When you and your partner explore the reasons why health is essential to each of you, and to your relationship, you create an understanding of your mission and purpose. That shared understanding as you strengthen your relationship makes it easier to assist each other when there is a lack of willpower.
2. Schedule a Weekly Planning Meeting
Dr. Pazona and Cat love their Sunday planning meetings. Those 15 minute sessions could save you a few last-minute takeout orders and a lot more stress.
Here’s what they cover:
- Weekly grocery lists
- Meal prepping
- Workout schedules
- Family activities and responsibilities
- Sleep routines and limits around social outings
The aim? Fewer surprises, greater alignment in your week, and more structure. Health isn’t just about food and exercise, but managing stress and setting your environment up for success is equally important.
3. Establish Easy Wins
If you and your partner have not yet synchronized, focus on where you can easily win. Dr. Joe says these are “easy wins.”
Try:
- Reducing how often fast food or junk food is purchased.
- Replacing a daily indulgence with a once-a-week treat.
- Agreeing and committing to a walk or any other activities you both like.
Even the most minute changes can create the most impactful shifts. Agreeing on 1 or 2 small changes may lead to the more consistent, long-term habits that arise out of incremental growth.
4. Support and Hold Each Other Accountable
Love isn’t the only feature of the healthiest relationships. These can, and should, create a system of accountability. In other words, support each other when motivation drops.
Dr. Joe explains how he and Cat “tag in and out” with each other based on whoever is having a hard day. One partner would take care of dinner or the kids while the other exercises or relaxes. Providing judgment-free help to someone struggling helps partners cope better.
Appreciation is needed too. Commend growth. Celebrate small wins. As you strengthen your relationship, encourage one another on the ‘why’ when the temptation to order that pizza arises.
Bonus: Reward Yourself Without the Guilt
A healthy lifestyle does not equate to living in a prison. Dr. Pazona strongly believes that rewards have their place–just not all the time.
This could look like:
- Date night with drinks.
- A vacation where one indulges in good cuisine.
- Telling your partner, ‘I am proud of you,’ for having exercised self-control toward their goals.
Just ensure rewards are not because of stress. Health transcends food; it’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Final Thoughts: Health is a Team Sport
Health is not something pursued in a bubble. The society we live in—in particular, our spouses—can tip the scale in our favor, or against us. That makes it crucial to synchronize your lifestyle, objectives, and philosophy with your partner for optimal emotional, relational, and physical health.
Dr. Pazona suggests grabbing your phone and your partner and setting a time for your first weekly planning meeting. It may just be the healthiest 15 minutes of your week!
These tips will help you strengthen your relationship with your partner. Is the goal for the 2 of you to live long lives together? Check out our top longevity tips for a longer life that you can implement into your routine.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
