8 Ways to get the Most out of a Marriage/Relationship Education Class

How can you boost your self-
esteem and self-development, at the same time you help your partner or loved ones boost their self-growth? Take a marriage/relationship education class, of course. Or a self-development program that promotes wellness and stability in yourself and in your relationships.

February* is:
-International Boost Self-Esteem Month      -National Weddings Month         
-Relationship Wellness Month                     -Celebration of Love Wk (10-16)
-Random Acts of Kindness Wk (12-15)     -International Flirting Wk (13-19)
-Valentine's Day(14)                                   -World Marriage Day (14)         
*Resource: www.brownielocks.com

We must share with you how to really take advantage of this month.

Here are 8 ways to get the best out of a Relationship/Marriage Education (M.E.) Class: 

1. Choose a class. There are several outstanding programs to chose from. Chose by the target audience. Brief description of programs are below.
2.  Attend with confidence. There is a stigma on self-help approaches being only for those that are really in trouble. And this isn't just another trend. Those involved in the community are trying very hard to show the importance of developing healthy habits and work constantly against this stigma. Positive Psychology has been showing the "positive" side of psychology that wasn't tapped into until lately.  
3. Ask Questions. When you call to RSVP your place for an organization or just to inquire the location and times, don't hesitate to ask questions. 
1. Is this program right for me (and my partner)? 
2. What is the cost? Does the organization provide scholarships? Full or partial?
3. Can I come alone (if it is a program for couples)?
4. Do I have to speak in front of others and share vulnerable feelings?
5. What are the dates and times? Does the class meet on only one occurrence?
6. If I miss a class do I get refunded or can I attend the next one?
7. Do I have to attend every session of the program?
8. Will there be snacks or nearby locations for lunch (depending if it is an 8-hour workshop or 4 hour session)? 
9. If I am (engaged, separated, married, new parent, stepfamily, etc) what program would you recommend?
10. If the location of the class is a church, will the program content include religious material or be secular?
11. What if I have a great Marriage?
12. What if I'm separated or considering divorce?
13. Do you provide programs for inmates and their spouses?
4. Give it a chance.  [Alfred] always points out to [Lucinda] when it comes to food that if one has never tasted it then how does one know they don't like it. When we were newlyweds, we thought we knew everything about communication and enough about ourselves to handle conflicts. But when we entered into our first marriage education class, titled Couples Communication in San Diego instructed by Susan Wingfield-Ritter, it talked about things people never talk about and we learned so much more about ourselves, not just about each other. It was fun and enlightening. 
5. Think about what you want out of an ME class. These classes offer plenty for everybody. However, the betterment is supported by the simplicity of knowing what you want out of the ME (Marriage Education) program. It was simple for us, we wanted to change. Jot down your reasons of what your goals are in your marriage and think about if anyone ever taught you a skillful way to reach those goals.
6.  Make the commitment. Setting the goal takes you halfway there and commitment is what keeps you on track. Even after you've completed a marriage/relationship program, renewing your commitment every day to the skills you've learned is essential in implementing them for your relationship.
7. Find a mentor/coach. Even after you've learned the skills and renewed your commitment. One or both may fall off track, and it is crucial to ask yourself, do I have a coach/mentor? Many organizations have programs where there is no charge to call your instructor for coaching, or spend time with a mentor couple. The stakes are high for couples that don't follow-up with a class or mentor/coach. 
8. Do it again! Who says you only need to do it once to learn the skills permanently? Take a marriage/relationship program every 6-12 months. Have fun by switching the program, or go back to your first class and see what you pick up differently. Have you noticed that when you watch a movie for the second time you see things you missed when you first watched it? 

Marriage/Relationship Programs: 

PAIRS: Great program to start with for all couples.


The Third Option: 14 topics for 14 weeks, and restarts every 14 weeks. Program designed for all couples and gives hope to troubled/separated couples. 

World Class Marriage: 16 Pillars that uphold a marriage. A dynamic class for all couples teaching the essentials to happy, healthy marriage.


Mastering the Mysteries of Love (MML): 10 skills for couples that are ready to deepen their intimacy. Designed for all couples. Coaches available throughout the program. 

Journey to Love: 10 weeks of support/self-growth for singles, and a workbook is provided to ask yourself life's important questions.

Ready for Love: The 10 Skills from MML for singles &/or teens.

Imago: Video/teaching of vital skills for all couples, troubled couples and those seeking enrichment.


There are many programs available, these are just to name a few. Find more information at www.smartmarriages.com, in CA go to www.Camarriage.com.


Feel free to post below your comments/questions/etc.