A 3 Month Break, Wrapping Up The Year and What’s In-Store For The Future

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In episode 89 of their podcast, Kim and Rog discuss why many couples avoid planning together, how to overcome resistance to planning, and how to create a one-year plan in just one hour. This episode provides practical steps to help couples align their priorities, reduce stress, and work toward a shared vision for their lives.

Why Couples Avoid Planning Together

1. Different Personalities & Preferences – One partner might love structure, while the other prefers to “go with the flow.”
2. Past Planning Tensions – If previous planning sessions led to disagreements, couples might avoid it altogether.
3. Fear of Restriction – Some people view planning as limiting rather than freeing.
4. Lack of Tools or Skills – Many couples don’t plan simply because they don’t know how.

Why Planning as a Couple is Essential

Kim and Rog highlight the impact of not planning together, including:

• Misaligned Expectations – One partner assumes something will happen, while the other has a completely different idea.
• Fewer Goals Achieved – Without teamwork, it’s harder to accomplish big life goals.
• Increased Stress & Resentment – Last-minute decisions create unnecessary pressure.
• Less Quality Time Together – Without intentional planning, time for connection often gets deprioritized.
• Financial Strain – Not planning finances can lead to mismatches in spending habits and future goals.
• Emotional Distance – Without planning, couples risk growing apart rather than moving forward together.

The Benefits of Planning as a Team

Instead of seeing planning as restrictive, Kim and Rog encourage listeners to view it as a path to greater freedom. When couples plan together:

• They achieve more by aligning their efforts.
• They fight less because priorities are clear.
• They feel supported because they understand each other’s goals.
• They build financial security by working toward shared financial milestones.
• They strengthen their bond by creating a culture of teamwork.

How to Create a One-Year Plan as a Couple in One Hour

Kim and Rog walk listeners through a step-by-step method for planning together:

Plan as a Team!

• Plan Together! it’s a bonding exercise that futureproofs your relationship
• Planning shouldn’t feel like a chore. Choose a relaxed setting—whether it’s a favorite café, a scenic outdoor spot, or a cozy home setup with drinks and snacks.
• Use visual tools like whiteboards or notebooks to bring ideas to life.

Start with a Visualization Exercise

• One partner closes their eyes while the other asks:
  “Visualize your perfect day, one year from now. From waking up to bedtime, what does it look like?”
• Encourage details:
  How does it feel to wake up? What’s your routine? How’s your relationship? How’s your health? What are you working toward? What are you celebrating?
• Take notes to identify key themes and priorities.

Identify Your Three Key Priorities and Set Three Specific Goals Under Each Priority

• Choose three major life categories that will define your focus for the next year.
• Examples: Health, Family, Business/Career, Finances, Personal Growth, Relationships.
• Kim and Rog share their own priorities: Health, Their Daughter, Business.
• Each priority should have three measurable goals.
• Examples:
  o Health Goal: Train for and complete a half Ironman.
  o Family Goal: Dedicate one hour of screen-free time with the kids every Sunday.
  o Relationship Goal: Go to bed at the same time every night.
• Be specific—vague goals don’t lead to action!

And Remember!

Make Your Plan Visible

• Write your goals down and display them somewhere prominent (e.g., study, bedroom, fridge).
• This helps you stay accountable and keep your priorities top of mind.

Revisit & Adjust the Plan Every 6 Months

• Plans aren’t set in stone—things change.
• Every 6 months, check in:
  Are we on track? Do we need to adjust? Where can we support each other more?
• Kim suggests incorporating planning check-ins into monthly walks or coffee chats to ensure ongoing alignment.