When I’m exploring options for shared hobbies or activities, help me to find classes or clubs that interest both of us, so that we can spend quality time together and strengthen our bond.
Meet Maya, someone who’s always treasured her solo hobbies and pursuits, often indulging in activities that piqued her interest without considering her partner Ryan’s inclinations. Lately, they’ve found themselves drifting apart, unable to find common ground in their leisure activities.
During a moment of internal conflict, Maya’s brain lights up in areas associated with conflict resolution and decision-making. It dawns on her that her usual way of selecting activities isn’t fostering a connection with Ryan.
Starting with Step 1 of the Pathway, Maya recognizes the disparity in their shared pastimes. She starts questioning the significance of her independent hobbies and metrics, pondering their impact on their relationship.
For Step 2, Maya embarks on a quest for classes, clubs, and activities that might captivate both her and Ryan. She aims to tie the outcome to the rewards of spending quality time together, nurturing a deeper bond.
In Step 3, Maya sets out outcome statements and a timeline for exploring joint hobbies, seeking to enrich their shared experiences within a specific timeframe.
Moving to Step 4, Maya evaluates the available options, considering trade-offs and prioritizing activities that resonate with both their interests. She actively involves Ryan, seeking his input and preferences, turning this decision-making process into a collaborative endeavor.
In Step 5, both Maya and Ryan commit to exploring a selected class or club, reflecting their shared values and their mutual desire to fortify their bond through shared activities.
With Step 6, they lay out the action plan in their calendar, carving out time for joint activities and ensuring they have the necessary resources for support.
In Step 7, Maya and Ryan take the plunge, enrolling in a cooking class, a shared interest they unearthed through their decision-making journey, marking the inception of their joint adventure.
As they move forward (Step 8), they reflect on their experience, contemplating adjustments to the chosen activity or exploring new avenues if necessary, always with the goal of strengthening their bond.
In Step 9, they refine their approach, making tweaks to their shared hobby selection to better align with their evolving interests and the needs of their relationship.
Finally, in Step 10, they share their positive experiences with friends, highlighting the advantages of exploring joint hobbies for nurturing a more connected, harmonious relationship.
Their transition from solitary hobbies to shared activities, driven by the outcome statement, led to a more profound and cohesive relationship, measured against their previous disconnect in shared interests. This collaborative approach became the optimal outcome for fostering their bond.