The 4th of July marks Independence Day in the United States, a day when families and friends get together to celebrate the birth our nation, eat good food, spend time outdoors, and watch impressive fireworks displays.

There are a couple of great ways of looking at Independence Day to really make the most out the holiday.

The first is not so different than the approach to looking at all other holidays – because most of us don’t have to work, the kids are out of school, and many businesses are closed, days like this are the perfect time to spend catching up with your loved ones, especially your spouse!

You can enjoy a day without the distractions of work and responsibilities, and really just spend the time with the people you care about most. We all know that quality time spent together is one of the most important elements in a relationship, and taking advantage of the holidays is a great way to make sure you’re getting this time in!

Now, for a slightly more “philosophical” way to look at Independence Day, and the impact it can make in your marriage, think about the historical significance of the holiday.

Without getting into the gritty details, the main reasons behind American independence from England was a need for change – a need to improve the situation of the people in this country. So, if you think about it in this way, Independence Day is a celebration of taking a step in the right direction, making a decision to improve.

The reason we’re here today, celebrating the holiday, is because the brave men and women who knew they needed a change followed through with their decision!

When you celebrate Independence Day this year, think about that kind of bravery and dedication. Is there something in your life that you want to change? Something about your marriage that you want to improve?

Remember that it won’t all happen at once, but like the revolutionaries who signed the Declaration of Independence, you have to start somewhere – and that takes resolve, bravery, and a real desire to improve!

So this 4th of July, as you’re grilling and enjoying the sun, playing with the kids and spending time with your spouse, think about the accomplishments that secured the 4th in the history books, and let it inspire you to pursue your own goals!

For more tips on keeping your marriage strong, check out the StrongMarriageNow System

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Dr. Dana Fillmore and Amy Barnhart, co-Founders, StrongMarriageNow.com